How and Why Ferticell Concentrated Products Work, Celebrating our 20th Anniversary!
June 25, 2024
Ferticell celebrated its 20th anniversary on April 1, 2024. During those 20 years we have grown significantly from the one product, Universal, to over 18. Our Spanish origin, Agroplasma, means land or agriculture and plasma (a biological suspension in a liquid medium). Ferticell, ferti from fertilizer and cell for the multiple types of single cell organisms used to form a unique concentrated product line.
Ferticell products utilize a microscopic and unicellular delivery system of balanced nutrition in a suspension of highly concentrated liquid cultures of a variety of microorganisms for nutrition of plants at the cellular level. They work on all plant life as a foliar application through the leaf or root through the stomata or pore hole. They are delivered instantaneously through absorption of a natural plant based organic product that are highly bioavailable and without the need of conversion and are active within 3 hours of application. Once absorbed into the plant cell, the microscopic cells attach themselves to individual plant cells and the nutrient is transferred. The process is called Cytoplasm Streaming or Inter-Cellular Exchange. The diffusion occurs from cell to cell according to concentration gradients (the graduated difference in concentration of a solute per unit distance through a solution); however, the rate of diffusion is slow. The streaming of cytoplasm is what achieves the rapid nutrient transfer. Known as pressure-transference phenomenon is instantaneous and results in immediately acting on the plant. Any Ferticell product not utilized by plant roots will remain in the soil as biome food (prebiotic) and assist in converting unlocked minerals in the soil.
Ferticell products contain proteins, natural amino acids, Cytokinin, Auxin, algae plus soil cell extract, bacteria, and a natural nutrient formula of specific organic compounds. They are designed to improve yield, quality, and quantity to grow stronger, healthier crops. This revolutionary new approach of growing stronger, healthier crops is based on most plants having their own complex growth and defense systems that are activated only when certain events occur in nature or are activated by Ferticell. The unique characteristic of the different cells used in Ferticell is the ability to hold large amounts of nutrients. The cells store them in a biological form and recreate in their body the nutrients like proteins, amino acids (in L form), microelements, and vitamins, that we then extract as an organic solution. The complex formula of Ferticell soil plus water cell extracts, nutrients and natural materials were developed to be used during various crop stages. Studies have shown that plants treated with Ferticell are stimulated resulting in more root mass, increased leaf area and number of flowers and fruit, with early maturation. Also, less water is required, are insect resistant, lower susceptibility to disease and fungal attack, have increased yield, longer product shelf life, and time/labor/cost savings. Better ROI and better healthier crops.
Ferticell forces the product to stick to the leave and ensures its total absorption, so no product washes off in rain or other external agents. Using a surfactant improves the product penetration for improved absorption by the plant under any conditions. We also use a stabilizer to keep product in suspension in tanks for a homogeneous product that will not settle out. It also easily disperses on a leaf surface, increasing the product absorption from a greater absorption surface during and after the application.
Foliar
Designed, formulated, and produced specifically for foliar application using the best raw materials available. This means consistent quality, safety, and performance. Foliar applications give the ability for timely application of nutrients targeted at the crop and avoiding soil interactions.
Fertigation
Fertigation allows precise, uniform nutrient that increases efficiency and a reduction in the amount of applied fertilizer to reduce ground water pollution caused by fertilizer leaching.
Seeds and Soil powder amino acids/micronutrients
The critical period for successful crop establishment is post germination when seedlings have to rely on their reserves. When it also is unable to draw on soil nutrients until sufficient root growth has developed which is why Ferticell has also developed a series of highly concentrated, liquid, and solid micronutrient products, specifically for seed treatment.
FERTICELL SHOULD BE A KEY PART OF EVERY TANK LOAD AND THEY ARE SEED SAFE AND WILL NOT BURN!
Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 is a highly concentrated solution containing an algae extract. Unlike kelp or seaweed products, Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 utilizes unicellular algae (from a consistent parent culture) that is grown in fresh water. This is to reduce the risk of salt burn when used for foliar applications, and to reduce the salt added to soil in a fertility program. It is also a source of carbon, phytohormones and high levels of nutrient rich energy. Additionally, algae produces 50 X biomass of terrestrial plants. It was developed in Russia to clean polluted soil, transform a sandy to a healthy soil and can also be used to clean chemically polluted soil and water making their trees grow faster and stronger. It is THE Active Plasma Plant Nutrient: Active Plasma is a technology that makes use of microscopic single cell organisms as the delivery system for nutrients. It is a balanced nutrient supply held in a biological suspension (plasma). Plant growth substances found in higher plants and algae having similar functions as those found in specific soil fungi and bacteria used in Universal™. Various unicellular organisms are isolated and then grown in tanks. They are filtered daily with a percentage macerated to provide a feeding media for the remaining cells in the process. Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 utilizes technologies to deliver nutrients and other important benefits directly to a plant’s cells. The algae cells are the delivery system of whatever input is applied using Universal™ or has it as part of the formula, e.g., Nutriplus™ 2.5-0-0. The process begins by using application methods that deliver our products directly to the leaf (foliar, fertigation and etc.). When applied as a foliar the product “sticks” to the plant leaf, the plasma contains a surfactant so it adheres (will not wash off, even in a light rain), then is quickly absorbed by the leaf through the stoma (in minutes) *. Once in the plant, the nutrient enriched algae cells are moved intercellularly (Inter-Cellular Exchange-I.C.E. Technology) until it reaches a plant cell that is deficient. The algae cell then attaches itself to the plant cell, and the nutrients are transferred from the alga cell to the plant cell in a balanced form. This process utilizes cytoplasmic streaming (based on the osmotic pressure differentials) and completes the transfer. This is also used by other Ferticell® nutrients when applied to the plants root. It can be in soil when directly applied or from spray falling to the soil during other applications. Algae cells that are not utilized by roots will remain in the soil as a food source for soil microbes, maintaining and increasing the biome. Universal™ also contains low concentrations of plant growth substances that through biosynthesis facilitates and influences growth. These are not nutrients, but small amounts of chemicals, phytohormones (Greek meaning to Set in Motion). These phytohormones in Universal™ differ from synthetic hormones since the ratios are more balanced for a consistent response. These phytohormones facilitate gene expression, transcription levels, cellular division for differentiation of cells/tissues to promote growth, and development. The most important phytohormones are categorized in five classes. Abscisic Acid (called ABA), one of the most important that typically stimulates cell elongation to influence growth and interrelations between their parts for improved development. Auxins (IAA) promote root stimulation to produce other growth substances in conjunction with Cytokinins. First of the five to be discovered. Cytokinins are a group of chemicals that also influence cell division, shoot formation, delay deterioration from age, and bring about auxin transport. Ethylene gas is formed during the breakdown of methionine found in all cells. Gibberellins (called GA's) promote flowering and cellular division. Will also reverse the restriction of shoot growth and dormancy induced by ABA. These organic substances are naturally occurring to directly influence the orderly process development of a plant. It requires a sequence of activations to produce the required proteins at the appropriate time. They function as chemical messengers to influence physiological processes regulating both internal and external responses. They counteract abiotic stress to maintain growth and survival. Applied during high stress yields continued growth with differentiation (peak phytochemical production in plants) for: Deliver High Energy Carbon in live / dormant algae cells. In one study, it demonstrated 4 x more cytokinin. Rhizophagy is enhanced when phytochemicals are directly used. Root exploitation / pseudo hormonal effect Supports Minimal Leaching Direct Benefits of Utilizing Universal™ 0-0-1 in all your applications: Provides faster assimilation when used with other nutrients applied as foliar and soil applications. It can be used with insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc. for faster assimilation as well, which leads to quicker kills IN the plant. Increases root development by promoting more lateral and deeper roots. Also contains Auxins and Cytokinin’s, which are in balance, so they do not harm plants. Increases resistance to disease, fungus, insects, and other pests. Developing more homogeneous fruits Should be applied during growth flush - for frame building and root flush (rinsing a plant's root zone with water to remove excess nutrients and salts) when a period of intense root growth takes place. Also used for Pre-Bloom, bloom stick, and bud stick for increased flowering and decreased flower loss. Direct feeding building blocks of plants, bypassing Soil N process Polysaccharides – energy During early stress mitigation used in combination with Ferticell® Nutri Plus™ 2.5-0-0 Compatible with pesticides and other fertilizers Energy from D Plus – Lactic Acid = Growth + Immune Response+ Stress Response Increases yield production and ROI. *How Universal™ 0-0-1 Works in the Plant Cytoplasmic Streaming
Achieving optimal plant health and maximizing crop yield requires more than just the application of primary nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). While these macronutrients are foundational, the often-overlooked microelements, also known as micronutrients, play equally vital roles in plant physiology, soil fertility, and nutrient synergy. For farmers interested in sustainable productivity, a balanced nutrient approach that includes essential microelements is not just beneficial, it is essential. Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 is a scientifically formulated blend designed to meet agricultural needs. It contains 1% nitrogen, 0.45% magnesium, 1.80% sulfur, 0.02% boron, 0.2% copper, 0.2% iron, 0.75% manganese, and 1.5% zinc, this comprehensive product supports robust crop growth, nutrient uptake, and long-term soil health. Its application can make a noticeable difference in productivity, particularly in intensive cropping systems where micronutrient depletion is a growing concern its effectiveness can be further enhanced by using Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1, which facilitates rapid absorption and complete uptake by the plant. Nitrogen and Magnesium: Energizing Plant Metabolism Even at 1% nitrogen, the concentration used in this formulation supports the creation of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids (if using Ferticell® Explorer™ 10-0-0 or 16-0-0 adds to their already high level of amino acids) and enzymes, key compounds in plant growth and metabolic function. It also plays a pivotal role in the production of chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis, which directly affects plant vigor and yield. Magnesium, at 0.45%, serves as the central atom in the chlorophyll molecule. Its presence boosts photosynthetic capacity, improves carbohydrate transportation, and facilitates phosphate metabolism. For farmers growing high-energy-demand crops such as corn, potatoes, and tomatoes, magnesium ensures that the photosynthetic production operates efficiently, especially under high light conditions. Sulfur and Boron: Enhancing Protein Synthesis and Reproductive Health Sulfur, present at 1.80%, is essential in the formation of cysteine and methionine, two critical amino acids. Sulfur also improves nitrogen-use efficiency, meaning farmers can potentially reduce nitrogen fertilizer inputs without compromising plant performance. Furthermore, sulfur plays a defensive role by enhancing plant resistance to diseases and environmental stressors such as drought or temperature fluctuations. Boron, though present in minute quantities (0.02%), has an outsized impact on plant productivity. It is instrumental in cell wall synthesis, pollen tube formation, and carbohydrate transport. In crops such as almonds, grapes, and sugar beets, boron deficiency can cause significant yield losses due to poor fruit set and compromised structural integrity. Precision management of boron can prevent such problems and improve overall crop quality. Copper and Iron: Catalyzing Growth and Preventing Chlorosis Copper (0.2%) functions as a co-factor in numerous enzymatic reactions. It is involved in lignin synthesis, which strengthens plant tissues and improves resistance against fungal and bacterial diseases. Copper also helps regulate photosynthetic enzymes, maintaining a balance between vegetative growth and reproductive success. Iron (0.2%) is a crucial element in electron transport chains within chloroplasts. A deficiency in iron leads to interveinal chlorosis, the yellowing of young leaves, due to reduced chlorophyll synthesis. For farmers growing crops on calcareous or alkaline soils, iron deficiency can be a common issue. Supplementing with a chelated source like Ferticell® Microelements™ 0-0-1 helps maintain plant vigor and prevents early cellular aging. Manganese and Zinc: Boosting Enzymatic Activity and Hormonal Balance Manganese (0.75%) is vital for the activation of more than thirty-five plant enzymes, especially those involved in nitrogen assimilation and antioxidant defense. It also contributes to the detoxification of reactive oxygen species during environmental stress, thereby protecting plant cells and tissues. Zinc (1.5%) is indispensable for the synthesis of tryptophan, a precursor to the growth hormone auxin. This influences cell elongation, leaf expansion, and root development. Zinc deficiency often results in shortened internodes and stunted growth, a scenario that directly affects yield. For corn and citrus growers, in particular, addressing zinc deficiency is key to ensuring profitable harvests. Soil Health, Synergy, and Sustainable Agriculture Beyond plant nutrition, Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 enhances soil fertility. By feeding beneficial microbial populations, especially sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, it promotes organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. This, in turn, improves nutrient availability and reduces the risk of fertilizer lock-up especially when using conventional fertilizers. Moreover, the synergy between elements, such as sulfur enhancing nitrogen efficiency, or zinc and copper regulating hormonal responses—creates a more resilient and productive agroecosystem. The Added Ferticell® Advantage is Their Focus on Foliar Application Rapid Nutrient Uptake: Leaves can absorb nutrients more quickly than roots, particularly when supported by a penetrant like Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1. This ensures near-immediate nutrient delivery to photosynthetically active tissues and metabolic centers. The result is a faster correction of deficiencies, often within 24 to 72 hours. Bypassing Soil Limitations: Soil conditions such as high pH, compaction, drought, or microbial imbalance can restrict nutrient availability. Foliar application avoids soil-related antagonisms by delivering nutrients directly into the plant's vascular system. Precision Timing with Crop Demand: Foliar feeding supports targeted nutrient delivery during sensitive growth windows like pre-flowering, fruit set, and bulking phases. With a number of application systems both foliar and soil applications input can be applied at the same time. Enhanced Use Efficiency: Foliar-applied nutrients are absorbed more directly (especially using Ferticell® ICE Technology*) and in smaller doses, minimizing losses through leaching or volatilization and improving return on investment. Compatibility with Integrated Management: Foliar feeds can be tank-mixed with other sprays, reducing labor and maximizing field efficiency. Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 enhances absorption and lowers phytotoxicity risks (please review the appropriate TDS and use a jar test to determine compatibility). Suitable for Organic and High-Value Crops: Foliar applications are ideal for sustainable, high-value systems requiring minimal soil disturbance and precise nutrient targeting. Practical Benefits for Farmers Farmers using Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 report reduced instances of visible nutrient deficiencies, increased crop uniformity, improved disease resistance, and higher yields. Over time, consistent use of such a balanced microelement blend corrects latent soil micronutrient imbalances and improves the return on investment (ROI) for all nutrient inputs. It also supports regulatory compliance in nutrient-sensitive watersheds by reducing runoff-related nutrient losses, and by using Universal™ 0-0-1 eliminates direct soil application, improving efficiency. Conclusion Incorporating a well-balanced microelement product like Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 (used along with Universal™ 0-0-1) is a proactive step toward better crop outcomes, healthier soils, and greater long-term farm profitability. This blend’s composition not only addresses immediate plant needs but also lays the foundation for sustainable agricultural systems. By understanding and applying these essential micronutrients, farmers safeguard not only their crops but their livelihoods, building resilience against environmental challenges while optimizing productivity and ecological health. *Inter-Cellular Exchange (ICE) is the mechanism by which nutrient moves from Ferticell® cells into the plant’s cells. ICE is most active in young living cells, particularly those found in leaves and roots.
Hydrolyzed soy protein (HSP) products, like Ferticell® Explorer™ 10-0-0 and Explorer™ 16-0-0 and our other products containing nitrogen also have polyamines (PAs), are pivotal in modern agricultural and biochemical applications. They provide essential nutrients for plant growth, while the PAs influence stress tolerance, ion transport, and crop productivity. First let’s examine their biochemical composition, roles, and mechanisms in plant development. Hydrolyzed soy protein is derived from soy proteins broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis, heat treatment, or microbial fermentation. This process yields compounds like oligopeptides and polypeptides, alongside free amino acids, and biogenic amines. Biogenic amines (BAs) are nitrogenous compounds produced by decarboxylation of amino acids during hydrolysis or fermentation. In hydrolyzed soy protein, typical BAs include tyramine, histamine, putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine. Their formation is crucial for biological activities, yet excessive accumulation can influence metabolic pathways and plant responses. This also explains why Ferticell’s products containing Nitrogen have synergistic effects that are realized, as well as there is nitrogen in them that is not seen through normal analysis. In amino acids there is an additional average of 6.5% nitrogen that is part of their composition, so with Explorer™ 10-0-0 that means an additional 3.9% or a 13.9-0-0*. Delving deeper there are other benefits that are not seen in using conventional nitrogen. Among them: Protein Structure: Amines (NH₂ groups) in amino acids form peptide bonds, facilitating protein synthesis. Neurotransmitter Precursors: Amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine can transform into serotonin and dopamine, respectively, playing roles in biochemical signaling. Zwitterionic Behavior: Amino acids exist as zwitterions in solution, balancing ionic interactions critical for cellular stability. Glycine acts as a transport for delivery of nutrients directly to the plants cells Polyamines in Plant Biology are polycationic organic molecules found in all living cells. They perform key roles in plant physiology, influencing growth, development, and cellular processes. Fundamental Roles: Cell Division and Differentiation: Polyamines regulate chromatin remodeling and gene expression, essential for normal plant growth. Flowering and Fruit Development: Polyamines enhance processes like pollen viability, ovule development, fruit set, and ripening. Nutrient Uptake: Their involvement in ion exchange increases plant absorption efficiency, promoting overall health and productivity. Polyamines improve plant tolerance to abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, salinity, extreme temperatures) and biotic stresses (e.g., pathogens, pests) by triggering molecular and physiological defenses. They modulate antioxidant activity, cellular repair mechanisms, and osmotic balance. Mechanisms of Polyamine Action: Ion Exchange and Stress Responses. Polyamines influence ion transport across cellular membranes, maintaining ionic homeostasis and signaling under stress conditions. Cation Transport Modulation: Ion Homeostasis: Polyamines regulate transporters like H+ and Ca2+ ATPases, ensuring cellular ionic balance critical for metabolic stability. Stress-Induced Remodeling: Under stress, polyamine levels adjust to enhance proline accumulation and enzymatic antioxidant activity. Specific Effects: Salinity Stress: Spermidine and spermine mitigate salinity-induced osmotic imbalances by enhancing ion transport and antioxidant responses. Drought Stress: These polyamines promote grain filling and drought resistance in crops like wheat. Ions play a crucial role in agriculture by enabling plant nutrient uptake, influencing soil fertility, and impacting soil pH and structure, all of which are essential for healthy crop growth. Here's a more detailed explanation: Nutrient Availability: Plants absorb essential nutrients from the soil in the form of ions, such as nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), phosphate (PO43-), and potassium (K+). Soil Fertility: The ability of soil to hold and release these ions (cation exchange capacity) is a key factor in determining soil fertility. Soil pH: The presence and activity of ions, particularly hydrogen ions (H+), significantly influence soil pH, which in turn affects nutrient availability and plant growth. Cation Exchange: Soil particles, especially clay and organic matter, have a negative charge that attracts and holds positively charged ions (cations) like calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and potassium (K+), making them available for plant uptake. Anion Exchange: While less common than cation exchange, some soils also have positively charged surfaces that can hold negatively charged ions (anions) like nitrate (NO3-) and phosphate (PO43-). Water Quality: Excessive amounts of certain ions, like nitrate, can leach into groundwater and contaminate water sources, posing a threat to both human and environmental health. Ionic Liquids in Agriculture: Ionic liquids (ILs) are emerging as a promising area of research in agriculture, with potential applications in pesticide delivery, plant immunity induction, and sustainable agricultural practices. In conclusion the practical utilization of hydrolyzed soy protein and polyamines, Explorer™ 10-0-0 and Explorer™ 16-0-0, has transformative implications for sustainable agriculture: Fertilizers: HSP provides organic nitrogen and essential amino acids to support plant growth and development. Abiotic Stress Tolerance: Polyamines enhance resilience to environmental challenges like drought and salinity. Crop Yield and Quality: PAs improve yield metrics and post-harvest fruit preservation, extending shelf life. Biotic Stress Defense: Their role in pathogen and pest resistance bolsters crop health. * 1. Explorer™ 10-0-0 is listed as 10% hydrolyzed soy nitrogen, and contains 60% amino acids (60.9% by analysis). * 3. Amino acids contribute an additional 6.5% nitrogen yielding 0.065 X 60 = 3.9% more nitrogen than the 10% analyzed or 13.9% with 98% (efficiency) of it being used by the plant.