In an era where sustainable farming is no longer optional but essential, AECI Plant Health is paving the way with its groundbreaking biological product range, Biocult. This product integrates seamlessly into traditional and greener production systems, offering farmers a sustainable, natural alternative to improve soil health and fortify crops against environmental challenges.
Deidré Odendaal, Biological Product Manager at AECI Plant Health, explains the pressing need for this approach.
“At AECI Plant Health, we produce a biological product range called Biocult, which consists of three innovative products. The first is Biocult TVS, applied directly to the plant hole at the roots during planting. Then we have the Biocult Seed Application, a seed treatment applied before planting to give crops a strong start. Lastly, there is Biocult Mycorrhiza WS, designed for easy application through the irrigation system. The entire Biocult range is powered by two beneficial fungi that we cultivate right here in Somerset West: Endomycorrhizae and Trichoderma asperellum.”
A three-pronged approach
The Biocult range is carefully designed to meet farmers’ specific needs at different stages of crop growth. It includes:
- Biocult® Mycorrhiza WS, Reg. No. M167, Act No. 36 of 1947**
- Biocult® Seed Application, Reg. No. M176, Act No. 36 of 1947**
- Biocult® TVS, Reg. No. M470, Act No. 36 of 1947 (Not classifiable in terms of GHS)**
Biocult® is the registered trademark of AECI® Limited
** Not classifiable in terms of GHS
The science driving Biocult
At its core, Biocult harnesses the power of two essential fungi: Three species of Mycorrhizae and six strains of Trichoderma asperellum, both produced at AECI Plant Health’s Biocult facility in Somerset West.
Researcher Madelein de Klerk elaborates on how these fungi work together to benefit plants. “Mycorrhizae are obligate symbionts that form a network within plant roots and extend into the soil. They absorb nutrients and water, feeding them to the plant in exchange for sugars. This relationship helps plants become more resilient to stresses and drought.
“Trichoderma asperellum, on the other hand, is a saprophytic fungus that thrives around plant roots. It prepares the soil for Mycorrhizae by improving its overall plant health, and acts as a growth promoter by stimulating root development. Together, these fungi increase leaf area and enhance photosynthesis efficiency.”
The combination of these fungi not only boosts the plant’s natural defences but also enriches the soil ecosystem.
From lab to farm
For AECI Plant Health, quality is paramount. Lauren Briers, Manager of the Trichoderma Production Unit and Quality Control Lab, highlights their meticulous production process.
“At Biocult, we perform quality control at two critical stages: first, after the raw product has been harvested, and again after it has been diluted and prepared for packaging. These tests ensure that each batch contains the required amounts of Trichoderma and Mycorrhizae and meets our high standards. This dual-stage quality control process gives us confidence that our products deliver consistent results in the field.”
Biocult… your secret superpower
The benefits of incorporating Biocult into farming practices are both immediate and long-lasting:
- Assisted nutrient uptake: The fungi enhance the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients from the soil, reducing the need for excessive fertiliser use.
- Stronger root systems: Increased root mass supports healthier, more resilient plants.
- Enhanced soil health: Biocult promotes soil functionality and long-term fertility.
- Ease of use: The Biocult range integrates effortlessly into existing farming systems, requiring minimal adjustments.
Fungi to the future’s rescue!
For AECI Plant Health, Biocult represents more than just a product; it is a philosophy. Deidré explains: “Biocult is not just about replacing traditional plant nutrition products. It is about building the plant’s natural resistance and health. With Biocult, we are not only safeguarding the active ingredients we have left but also equipping farmers with tools to adapt to the challenges of modern agriculture.”
For more information, visit the AECI Plant Health website at https://aeciph.com/.
