Root exudates dramatically improve soil ecology by suppressing harmful bacteria and fungi. Favorably shifting the populations of soil microbiota creates an environment that allows the plants to thrive.

Scientists have referred to root exudates as “defense compounds” that help the plant develop healthy roots, larger root systems and create vigorous plants that are more resistant to biotic and abiotic stress.

Root exudates not only improve the relative populations of beneficial and harmful soil organisms, but also stimulate and feed these beneficial colonies. With reduced competition and abundant food supply, these beneficial bacteria create robust populations. In an example of plant-bacteria symbiosis, the bacteria colonies supply natural growth promoters, accelerating plant growth and development (referred to as Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria, or PGPR) proving the following benefits over synthetic applied PGR’s

1. They are produced naturally by the bacteria at no cost to the grower

2. They are released at the precise time and quantity based on the complex communication between the plant and the bacteria

In the trial to the left, the cherries treated with NEB showed advanced maturity, better color, enhanced grade and higher yield.

Crop Benefits: Yield, quality, consistency

Soil Benefits: Soil structure, water holding capacity, root penetration, organic matter