Incorporating soil conditioners and biostimulants into farm agronomy programmes could play a role in helping cut on-farm emissions.

Soil enhancing solutions can support soil health and nutrient efficiency and in turn reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers.

Soil health specialist and Timac Agro UK technical product manager David Newton highlights how soil health management plays a vital role in meeting environmental ambitions.

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“Biostimulants and soil conditioners improve soil structure and support microbial activity which aids nutrient mineralisation – a process that converts organic matter into nutrients plants can easily absorb,” he says.

“By promoting soil health and enhancing nutrient cycling, these solutions can provide a practical pathway for reducing greenhouse gases.”

David says Calcium-based soil conditioners can help optimise fungal and bacterial activity in all crop types.

“The base of marine calcium provides neutralising effects for acidic soils, and boosts rooting and nutrient availability for both crops and livestock.”

Trials using calcium-based soil conditioner Humistart+ observed nitrogen mineralisation in the soil for 28 days post-application.

There was a 38% increase in total nitrogen available at a rate of 240kg/acre compared to a control soil conditioner.

A Wiltshire-based dairy farm using these solutions achieved a 14t reduction in artificial fertiliser useage between two seasons, and observed improvements in silage quality.

“The results highlight the huge potential of soil conditioners and biostimulants as a scalable solution for farms of all sizes looking to lower emissions from artificial inputs,” David adds.