The plant bioactivator Organic Bloom presented the first results obtained in the control of nematodes during the Brazilian Congress of Nematology (CBN 2023). It is an organic solution formulated by Ingal Agrotecnologia based on phytic acid extracted from rice bran and amino acids from soybeans.

As it is a natural product, obtained 100 percent from plant sources, Organic Bloom is fully compatible with other technologies and adjusts to a wide pH range, and can be added to the syrup in applications. According to the manufacturer, Organic Bloom also stimulates germination, being compatible and synergistic with biological crop management.

In addition to its nematicidal effect, this plant bioactivator solubilizes phosphorus and protects it from biotic and abiotic stresses. “Organic Bloom has increased its position in the agricultural market since its efficiency was proven in the laboratory and the field in experimental areas”, stated agronomist Cristiane dos Reis, who is director of research and development (R&D) at Ingal Agrotecnologia.

She conducted these studies together with agronomist Tatiane Zambiasi, Master in Nematology and director of Agromax Agricultural Research and Development, which specializes in tests on nematode management. The research began in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, but there were also applications in commercial crops in several other states.

The results showed that Organic Bloom is efficient in managing the main nematodes that compromise the productivity of soybeans, corn, beans and cotton. The plant bioactivator controlled the nematodes Meloidogyne incognita, Meloidogyne javanica, Pratylenchus brachyurus, Heterodera glycines, and Rotylenchulus reniformis.

Zambiasi stated that in the first tests, Organic Bloom had an effect on nematodes. From then on, she says, they began a process of investigating the product with several tests in the laboratory and a greenhouse, under controlled conditions. Soon after, field tests were also carried out at a research station to investigate all the product’s mechanisms of action.

“We discovered that Organic Bloom has a very efficient action on all the main nematodes – which cause huge losses in several crops in Brazil,” said Zambiasi. “We tested on soybean cyst nematodes, which is a big problem in Brazil. We also applied it to root-knot nematodes and root lesions, with all results being very good. Furthermore, we tested the reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis), which attacks cotton crops, and there was also excellent control.”

According to Zambiasi, different mechanisms of action were discovered for each test carried out, but always with excellent pest control. “Other researchers also conducted tests – and they all found the same success. That’s why we accepted Ingal Agrotecnologia’s invitation to present our experience at the Brazilian Nematology Congress because Organic Bloom is a unique product, it is neither chemical nor biological, unlike anything else on the market,” she explained.

In addition to soybeans, corn, cotton and beans, there is also work with cassava and even winter crops in southern Brazil.

Ingal Agrotechnology also revealed new research, this time carried out by Doctor in Phytopathology/Nematology Claudia Dias Arieira. The researcher from the State University of Maringá proved that Organic Bloom induces resistance in soybeans to the nematodes Pratylenchus brachyurus and Meloidogyne javanica. This work will be presented in this month in Cairo, Egypt, during the 53rd Annual Meeting of ONTA (Organization of Nematologists of Tropical America).

Organic Bloom was developed in partnership with the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) and has the IBD International Organic Product Certification seal. Ingal Agrotecnologia was founded by Fernando Caetano and has Nelson Borges as the commercial leader in the Brazilian Cerrado Region.

CBN 2023 had the theme “Nematology for the future: Sustainability and Technology”. The event is promoted by the Brazilian Society of Nematology and carried out by the Mato Grosso Regional Nematology Study Group (Gren-MT).