Derived from Ascophyllum nodosum, UPL’s premium biostimulants BM-Start and Calibra actively promotes fruit set, leaf health, and root growth. And the benefits are obvious.
Proven biostimulants helping crops reach their full potential
To help plants achieve their full potential they need a little help.
Derived from Ascophyllum nodosum, a seaweed species known for its high-quality composition, UPL’s biostimulant range actively promotes fruit set, leaf health, and root growth. And the benefits are obvious.
With over 50 years of proven performance behind them, the products consistently deliver advantages in terms of yield and plant health.
Modes of action with benefits
Ryan Pierce, UPL NZ Ltd Regional Sales Manager Lower North Island, says the products have several beneficial modes of action.
“The biostimulants activate the plant enzymes responsible for nutrient uptake, improving the plants’ ability to absorb nutrients from the soil. They also stimulate root and leaf growth so you’re getting the best from your crops. If you’ve got healthy leaves and roots, you’ve got healthy plants.”
Other benefits, Ryan says, include increasing chlorophyll synthesis for higher photosynthetic activity and increasing free polyamines in flowers and young fruit.
Sustainable harvesting and production process
He says the UPL products are produced in France using only fresh seaweed rather than dried. (The latter is the norm.) “It’s part of our commitment to sustainability and best practice. The Ascophyllum nodosum for BM-Start and Calibra is harvested, by hand with a knife, leaving 25-30 cm of plant intact to regrow. Harvested areas are left alone for a period of two years between harvests - that means Ascophyllum nodosum is going to be around for future generations.”
BM-Start - Designed for improving flowering
Growth stimulant BM-Start, Ryan explains, features a unique combination of GoActiv (an Ascophyllum nodosum filtrate) along with boron and molybdenum. Formulated for fruits and vegetables it increases flowering and supports plants under stress from frost, drought or other extreme weather events.
“It’s been an indispensable tool for New Zealand growers for several decades. Bee-friendly, it’s the Rolls Royce of biostimulants.”
Plants that can benefit include; asparagus, avocadoes, beans, carrots, cereals, cucurbits, fruit trees, grapes (table and wine), leafy vegetables, peas, potatoes, and strawberries.
Calibra - Designed to boost protein synthesis
Ryan says another UPL biostimulant Calibra, was specially formulated for New Zealand. “It’s packed to the brim with GoActiv and its core function is to boost protein synthesis.” Used on fruit trees, vegetables, and vines including kiwifruit, he says Calibra is a staple in growers’ sheds. “It promotes cell division and a healthy skin.” He recommends using the products every 10-14 days to encourage good plant health.
“It can help with longevity of storage for crops.”
Ryan says Calibra should be part of a programme for healthy fruit trees, including apples and apricots.
