Some U.S. farmers are making unusually late planting decisions for the 2026 season as rising fertilizer costs and geopolitical uncertainty—particularly the war involving Iran—reshape crop economics and planting strategies, according to industry participants and government data.

A representative from Stine Seed Company said elevated fertilizer prices are weighing on corn acreage, prompting a shift toward soybeans. David Thompson, the company’s director of brand strategy, told Brownfield Ag News that markets appear to have already factored in an increase in soybean plantings, as soybeans require less fertilizer than corn. The uncertainty has led to a higher-than-usual volume of last-minute seed orders, with growers adjusting crop mixes closer to planting as cost pressures become clearer.

Data from the US Department of Agriculture supports this trend. The agency’s prospective plantings report showed farmers intend to plant 95.338 million acres of corn in 2026, down from 98.788 million acres last year, while soybean acreage is expected to rise to 84.7 million acres from 81.215 million. Analysts cautioned that the survey, conducted in early March, may not fully reflect the impact of the Iran conflict on fertilizer and fuel markets, suggesting corn acreage could decline further in subsequent revisions.

The war has disrupted nitrogen fertilizer supplies from key exporting regions, raising input costs for crops such as corn and wheat, which are more fertilizer-intensive. Combined with weak grain prices, elevated production costs, and ongoing uncertainty over Chinese demand for U.S. crops, these pressures are contributing to tighter farm margins. Against this backdrop, growers are increasingly deviating from traditional crop rotations in favor of lower-input options, while continuing to delay planting decisions later than usual.

Pivot Bio has introduced a multi-year nitrogen price and supply assurance program to help farmers manage rising volatility in global fertilizer markets. Announced March 30, the initiative allows growers and retailers to lock in prices for the 2026–2028 growing seasons, as U.S. planting activity begins and concerns persist over fluctuating fertilizer costs and uncertain supply.

The company said its microbial nitrogen products are currently priced roughly half as much as conventional synthetic fertilizers, supported by expanded domestic production. The program also offers flexible payment structures and guarantees product availability during key application periods. Chief Executive Chris Abbott said the move responds to growing demand among farmers for greater predictability in input costs and operational planning.

Industry participants note that fertilizer price swings are increasingly influenced by a combination of global supply constraints, energy market dynamics, and geopolitical factors. Melih Keyman, chief executive of Keytrade and a member of Pivot Bio’s board, said multiyear agreements could help stabilize decision-making across the agricultural sector. Pivot Bio added that its nitrogen solutions, applied at planting and designed to remain active at the root level, have been validated across more than 15 million acres and are intended to complement traditional fertilizer programs.

Acron and Colombia’s coffee cooperative Coocentral have held a series of agricultural training seminars to improve productivity and fertilizer use among coffee growers in the country’s key producing region. The sessions, held in the municipalities of Pital, Guadalupe, and Garzón in the Huila Department, brought together representatives from around 300 farms and focused on practical approaches to soil fertility management, optimizing crop nutrition programs, and improving fertilizer efficiency.

The initiative is part of a strategic partnership between Acron and Coocentral, which has been in place for more than 10 years and focuses on introducing modern agricultural technologies into Colombia’s coffee sector. During the seminars, participants were presented with field trial results showing that the use of Acron’s NPK fertilizers under the Ferticoolombia line increased coffee yields by 5–11% compared with traditional fertilization practices, while maintaining a low share of lower-quality beans. The trials also showed improved nutrient use efficiency, with a ratio of 5.3 compared with 4.9 under standard fertilization programs.

Company representatives said the program reflects a broader effort to combine product supply with knowledge transfer to support long-term sustainability. Huila accounts for about 18% of Colombia’s coffee output and is widely regarded as a leading region for high-quality beans. Coocentral, which represents more than 3,000 producers, plays a key role in supporting the region’s development by providing access to agronomic services and technology, while Acron continues to expand its presence in Colombia’s fertilizer market across crops including coffee, sugarcane, avocado, banana, citrus, rice, and oil palm.

Attune Agriculture has announced its Entrapment insecticide has received registration from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, enabling use across all U.S. states and extending the product’s label to include all agency-defined crop groups.

The approval allows application across a range of agricultural and non-agricultural settings, including row crops, orchards, vegetables, greenhouse production, turf and ornamental systems.

Entrapment is a contact, non-systemic insecticide based on a physical mode of action. Its active ingredient, Rhexalloid, forms droplets on plant surfaces that immobilize small insects and mites on contact without affecting metabolic or nervous system functions. The product is designed to avoid phytotoxic effects on treated crops.

The insecticide can be applied up to harvest and does not carry restrictions on application intervals or frequency, according to the company.

Entrapment  can be used either as a stand-alone treatment or in rotation with conventional chemistries as part of insect resistance management programs.

The label covers a broad range of pests, including aphids, thrips, whiteflies and mites, and has been expanded to include species such as spotted wing drosophila, cotton jassid and spotted lanternfly.

Field trials conducted by third-party research groups in the U.S. showed performance comparable to, and in some cases exceeding, standard chemical programs. Reported results included improved control of codling moth in apples, navel orangeworm in almonds, plant bugs in cotton and whiteflies in greenhouse tomatoes.

The Entrapment line includes multiple formulations, including one listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in organic production. The company said the product will be available commercially in the near term.

AgroFresh has increased prices globally and introduce a temporary energy and logistics surcharge as rising oil prices and supply chain disruptions drive up costs across the agricultural sector.

The company implemented a 6% price adjustment across its portfolio, alongside a temporary 3% surcharge on energy and logistics costs, effective March 31, 2026. AgroFresh cited rising energy prices, ongoing logistical instability, and higher raw-material costs as the key drivers behind the move.

Han Kieftenbeld, CEO of AgroFresh said “Our focus is on ensuring growers, packers, and exporters can continue operating with confidence despite unprecedented volatility in energy and logistics markets.”

AgroFresh has absorbed most cost increases in recent years while maintaining service levels for customers. However, continued geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have intensified pressure on energy and transportation costs, prompting the company to take action.

The adjustment will affect operations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, where AgroFresh supports major exporters, packers, and growers of fresh produce. The company will continue to monitor market conditions and review the surcharge as energy and logistics markets evolve.

AgroFresh provides post-harvest solutions aimed at extending shelf life, preserving quality, and reducing waste across the fresh produce supply chain. The company partners with growers and shippers globally to maintain consistent supply while advancing sustainability initiatives.

Customers seeking details on the adjustment are advised to contact their AgroFresh account representatives.

MustGrow Biologics will shut its Canadian distribution subsidiary NexusBioAg on April 15, moving away from a lower-margin resale business to focus on expanding sales of its TerraSante biofertility product in the U.S.

NexusBioAg, which distributed third-party agricultural inputs to Canadian farmers, operated in a price-competitive segment with limited margins. The remaining inventory will be sold through existing channels in the coming months.

MustGrow is redirecting capital toward increasing production of TerraSante after demand from large U.S. growers outpaced supply in 2025, a pattern has continued into this year.

The company raised $2 million in equity financing in January and secured an additional $2 million credit facility from the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, backed by Export Development Canada, to support inventory build-up. It relies on third-party manufacturers, allowing it to scale output without investing in its own production facilities.

TerraSante, a mustard-derived organic product, is registered for sale in several U.S. states, including California and Florida, and is certified under OMRI and California’s Organic Input Material program.

MustGrow’s early data indicates the product may support soil conditions and crop performance. The company is also evaluating partnership opportunities to expand TerraSante into international markets, including through prior collaboration with Bayer AG.

India is expanding its fertilizer sourcing strategy to ensure adequate supplies for the upcoming summer-sown crop season, according to a senior official from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. The country currently holds about 18 million metric tons of fertilizer stocks, up from 14.7 million tons a year earlier, against an estimated seasonal requirement of 39 million tons.

Prior to the Iran conflict, the Gulf region supplied roughly 20–30% of India’s urea imports and about 30% of diammonium phosphate (DAP). In response to ongoing disruptions, the government has moved to diversify imports, securing supplies from countries including Russia, Morocco, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Jordan, Canada, Algeria, Egypt, and Togo. Indian firms have also signed long-term agreements, including a deal for 2.8 million tons of Russian supplies routed via the Cape of Good Hope, while a global tender for 1.3 million tons of urea was issued in February.

The summer cropping season begins in April, with April and May typically used to build inventories. However, domestic urea production is currently running at about 1.8 million tons per month, below the usual 2.4 million tons, as some plants restart after maintenance. At the same time, India faces higher global fertilizer and freight costs, compounded by its reliance on the Middle East for around half of its liquefied natural gas imports, a key input for fertilizer production. Despite these pressures, the government continues to supply urea and DAP at subsidized prices.

U.K. farmers are facing a sharp increase in fertilizer costs, with prices more than doubling in recent months amid tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted global supply chains. Industry participants told Sky News that the escalation of conflict has driven up the cost of synthetic fertilizers, raising concerns that higher production expenses will soon translate into renewed food inflation.

Synthetic fertilizers, which rely heavily on natural gas for production, have been particularly affected. Processed ammonia products such as urea and ammonium nitrate form the backbone of global fertilizer supply, with a significant share typically transiting through the Gulf region. Disruptions linked to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz have tightened supply, pushing urea prices from about USD 300 per tonne at the end of last year to nearly USD 700. For farmers, the increase presents a difficult choice between absorbing sharply higher costs or reducing fertilizer application, with potential consequences for crop yields.

Suppliers are already signaling further price pressure. Fertilizer distributor Nitrasol said it would honor pre-existing contracts agreed before the conflict but indicated that new pricing would need to reflect current market conditions. The situation raises the prospect of a second wave of food inflation in the U.K. within four years, following the surge experienced in 2022–2023.

Retailers, particularly in the grocery sector, are bracing for renewed cost pressures. Higher fertilizer prices typically move quickly through the agricultural supply chain, increasing growers’ expenses and feeding into wholesale and retail pricing. While supermarkets may attempt to absorb some of the impact to remain competitive, elevated costs for energy, labor, and logistics leave limited scope to protect margins. Reduced domestic crop yields could further tighten supply, forcing retailers to rely more heavily on imports and increasing exposure to global market volatility.

Analysts warn that sustained fertilizer price increases could have lasting implications for food availability and affordability. For consumers, the result may be another period of rising grocery bills, adding strain to household budgets already under pressure from broader economic challenges.

Brazilian researchers have reported the first confirmed detection of the root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus hippeastri infecting apple and grapevine crops in the country, raising concerns over potential impacts on fruit production. The findings, published in March 2026, follow investigations into stunted apple trees in Paraná state and symptomatic grapevines in Rio Grande do Sul.

Root and soil samples collected from commercial orchards revealed the presence of the nematode species in both hosts. Apple trees of the Gala variety in Palmas, Paraná, and Viognier grapevines grafted onto Paulsen rootstock in Pinto Bandeira exhibited symptoms including reduced growth, leaf yellowing, senescence, and root lesions. Laboratory analysis using centrifugal flotation techniques identified root-lesion nematodes, which were further examined through morphological and molecular methods.

Detailed morphological analysis of recovered specimens showed key identifying features consistent with Pratylenchus hippeastri, including two lip annuli, lateral fields with four incisures, and a conoid tail with a blunt terminus. Molecular sequencing of ribosomal DNA regions confirmed the identification, with results showing 100% genetic similarity to previously documented isolates. The sequences have been deposited in GenBank, supporting the classification.

The nematode species has previously been reported in a range of hosts globally, including ornamental plants, grapevine species in the United States, apple crops in China and Africa, and strawberries in Costa Rica. However, this marks its first documented occurrence in Brazil. Authorities have been notified, and the Ministry of Agriculture is expected to assess the phytosanitary risks and consider measures to limit the spread of the pathogen.

The detection highlights the need for continued monitoring and early diagnostic efforts in Brazil’s fruit sector, particularly as nematode infestations can lead to yield losses and long-term soil health challenges if left unmanaged.

ADAMA has announced the U.S. launch of Phenatic herbicide, a Group 4 phenoxy product aimed at improving broadleaf weed control in cereal crops and strengthening program-based weed management approaches. The product is designed for post-emergence use and positioned as a flexible tank-mix partner to support more consistent control across wheat, barley, oats, and rye.

According to the company, Phenatic offers systemic activity that enables more complete control of susceptible weeds while integrating with commonly used cereal herbicides. The product is intended for early post-emergence application windows, allowing growers to address weeds before they significantly impact yields. Target species include kochia, pigweed, ragweed, mustards, and lambsquarters.

ADAMA said the herbicide can be used alongside other active ingredients such as bromoxynil, dicamba, and sulfonylureas to expand the weed control spectrum and improve application efficiency. The addition of a phenoxy mode of action is also expected to support resistance management strategies as growers face increasing herbicide resistance challenges.

The launch reflects a broader shift toward program-based agronomy, where multiple products and modes of action are combined to enhance performance and maintain long-term field productivity.

Vancouver-based Miraterra Technologies raised C$16 million (about $12 million) in anoversubscribed financing round to expand its AI-driven soil measurement platform. The round, initially targeted at C$13.9 million, was led by At One Ventures, with follow-on participation from Farm Credit Canada, S2G Investments, the Sitka Foundation and iSelect.

The funding comes after Miraterra’s 2025 acquisition of U.S.-based Trace Genomics assets, including laboratory facilities and analytical tools in Ames, Iowa. The combined capabilities would allow the company to scale its platform, which integrates artificial intelligence, genomics and spectroscopy to analyze soil, plants and food systems.

Chief executive Nate Kelly said the capital will support commercial rollout, broaden measurement applications, and expand partnerships across the agricultural value chain. The company is also increasing investment in AI and data science to convert complex environmental data into actionable insights for farmers and food producers.

Investors said Miraterra’s approach addresses a gap in soil measurement. Tom Chi, founding partner at At One Ventures, said most existing tools assess isolated factors, while Miraterra combines mineral, water and biological data in a single platform.

The company has developed a device called the “Digitizer,” which uses Raman spectroscopy and machine learning to assess soil and food characteristics. Miraterra is also expanding its proprietary soil DNA library as part of the platform.

The investment coincides with Canada’s growing focus on soil health. Proposed federal legislation, Bill S-230, is under Senate review and would create a national soil strategy, appoint a soil health advocate, and establish a governance framework. Analysts say standardized soil measurement tools could see increased demand if the bill becomes law.

Farm Credit Canada, a Crown corporation and returning investor, said its participation reflects its focus on technologies that enhance productivity while supporting sustainable farming.

Miraterra plans to deploy its platform for applications in crop management and carbon measurement, where verifiable soil data is increasingly valued.

Eurofins Agro Testing has expanded its European seed testing footprint, linking laboratories in Italy, France and the Netherlands into a coordinated network as demand for phytosanitary controls rises.

The cluster offers more than 800 tests for seed-borne diseases and pests, increasing capacity at a time when tighter border inspections and import rules are placing new pressure on seed producers and traders.

The laboratories operate under ISO 17025 accreditation and provide GSPP-compliant testing, allowing companies to outsource analysis or supplement in-house capabilities during peak periods. The network is also positioned as an independent provider for firms seeking third-party validation.

Services span molecular diagnostics such as qPCR, germination testing under ISTA standards, and research on emerging plant diseases. Preventative screening includes PCR- and ELISA-based pathogen detection, along with bioassays and artificial inoculation.

More than 500 pathogen tests are available across the network, covering bacteria, fungi, viruses and nematodes. Eurofins also offers custom assay development, method validation and resistance screening.

In the Netherlands, over 200 tests have been approved by the national plant health authority, enabling results to be used for official certification.

The expansion is part of Eurofins Seed Solutions, which integrates genomics, field trials, laboratory testing and regulatory support. The company says the platform is designed to help seed developers manage compliance requirements and shorten time to market for new varieties.

KWS is expanding its partnership with Agvolution, integrating the startup’s agmeo artificial intelligence models more deeply into its myKWS digital platform, as seed companies step up efforts to embed data-driven tools into farm operations.

The update brings Agvolution’s environmental data, satellite inputs and crop models into myKWS, allowing farmers to generate field-specific recommendations based on crop type, location and growth stage.

The system is intended to help growers refine input use and manage daily agronomic decisions across the crop cycle, from planting through harvest. The platform is currently used in about 30 countries.

Agvolution, a 2020 spin-off from universities in Göttingen and Erlangen, develops software that translates weather and field data into operational guidance. Its tools are designed to model how crops respond to local conditions, including climate variability and soil factors.

The tie-up gives Agvolution broader access to KWS’s global customer base, while strengthening the seed group’s digital offering alongside its core breeding business.

Based in Einbeck, Germany, KWS operates in more than 70 countries and reported sales of about €1.68 billion (about $1.9 billion) in fiscal 2024/25. The company has been increasing investment in research and development as well as digital services aimed at improving crop performance.

Modern agricultural laboratories have evolved far beyond simple field tests using indicator paper. Today, they operate as high-tech analytical centers that integrate advanced physical instrumentation with classical chemistry techniques. This transformation is central to precision agriculture, where the reliability of soil, water, and plant analysis directly influences both economic outcomes and environmental sustainability. The quality of laboratory equipment plays a decisive role in ensuring that agronomic decisions—from fertilizer application to irrigation management—are grounded in accurate and reproducible data.

High-precision elemental analysis with ICP-AES

One of the most important instruments in a modern agricultural laboratory is the Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES). This technology enables simultaneous detection of multiple elements across a wide range of sample types, including soil, water, plant tissues, and animal feed.

Operating at temperatures approaching 10,000°C, the plasma excites atoms, causing them to emit light at element-specific wavelengths. By measuring the intensity of this emission, laboratories can determine concentrations with high precision.

For agricultural professionals, this translates into the ability to quantify both macro- and micronutrients, detect hidden deficiencies before they impact yields, and monitor potentially harmful heavy metal accumulation. The output—typically expressed in mg/kg—provides a robust basis for calculating fertilizer application rates tailored to specific field conditions.

Spectrophotometry remains a regulatory and analytical cornerstone

Despite advances in multi-element instrumentation, spectrophotometry continues to play a central role in agricultural analysis. Many standardized testing protocols required by regulatory frameworks rely on this method, making it indispensable for compliance and reporting.

Spectrophotometers are commonly used to determine mobile phosphorus and sulfur fractions, ammonium nitrogen levels, and soil organic matter content. Beyond compliance, these classical methods serve as an important validation tool, allowing laboratories to cross-check results obtained through more complex instrumentation.

This dual approach—combining modern and classical techniques—enhances confidence in analytical results and ensures consistency across different testing methodologies.

Automated titration improves consistency and reproducibility

Automation has significantly improved the reliability of titration-based measurements. Modern titrators remove subjective interpretation from the process, delivering consistent and repeatable results across multiple analyses.

These systems are widely used to assess water hardness, alkalinity, chloride levels, and concentrations of calcium and magnesium, as well as the acidity of soil extracts. Such parameters are critical for evaluating irrigation suitability and soil chemical balance.

Consistency in these measurements is particularly important for long-term monitoring programs, where year-to-year comparability is essential for tracking changes in soil health and water quality.

Kjeldahl method remains the standard for nitrogen determination

The Kjeldahl method continues to be the reference technique for determining total nitrogen content in agricultural samples. Despite being developed more than a century ago, it remains widely used due to its accuracy and reliability.

The method involves digesting the sample to convert nitrogen into ammonium, followed by distillation and quantitative measurement. This process provides essential data for calculating nitrogen balances, assessing feed quality, and optimizing fertilization strategies.

Accurate nitrogen measurement is fundamental to crop management, as nitrogen availability directly affects plant growth, yield potential, and environmental impact.

Comprehensive laboratory services beyond instrumentation

While advanced equipment is critical, the value of an agricultural laboratory also depends on the breadth of analytical services it provides. Comprehensive testing typically includes soil parameters such as pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, trace elements, and heavy metals.

Water analysis focuses on acidity, salinity, alkalinity, and nutrient content, which are essential for irrigation management. Plant tissue and feed analysis further support nutrient optimization by providing insight into actual uptake and nutritional status.

The integration of these datasets enables a holistic approach to farm management, linking soil conditions, water quality, and crop performance.

Conclusion: from estimation to data-driven agriculture

The adoption of modern laboratory technologies is shifting agriculture toward a data-driven model, where decisions are based on measurable parameters rather than assumptions. This transition allows producers to optimize input use, reduce unnecessary costs, and improve yield predictability.

In this context, selecting a laboratory should involve careful consideration of both analytical capabilities and technological sophistication. The precision of laboratory data ultimately underpins every agronomic decision, making it a critical component of sustainable and profitable farming systems.

Fertiberia has introduced its NSAFE bio-inhibitor technology to Germany and the Netherlands, marking its first expansion beyond the Iberian Peninsula after earlier commercialization in Spain and Portugal. The rollout will be led by Van de Reijt Meststoffen, the group’s Dutch subsidiary, as nitrogen use efficiency and soil health remain central to agricultural policy in both countries.

The company describes NSAFE as the first microbiological nitrification inhibitor designed to reduce nitrogen losses while preserving soil biodiversity. Developed over more than six years, the patented technology works differently from conventional chemical inhibitors by acting on nitrate rather than ammonium, temporarily incorporating nitrogen into microbial biomass before releasing it back into the soil. Fertiberia said this mechanism allows for a more gradual nutrient supply, helping improve crop uptake and limiting losses from leaching and volatilization.

Field and laboratory trials conducted with institutions including Wageningen University, Ghent University, and Spanish National Research Council indicate reductions in nitrogen leaching of around 20% and cuts in nitrous oxide emissions ranging from 20% to 60%. More than 70 field trials also showed gains in nitrogen use efficiency averaging 70%, alongside yield increases exceeding 7% in arable crops and higher gains in woody and horticultural systems.

NSAFE will initially be incorporated into two products in Fertiberia’s Nergetic Complete range. The company said the expansion aligns with its broader strategy to scale lower-carbon crop nutrition technologies across Europe, as regulators and farmers face increasing pressure to reduce emissions and nutrient losses while maintaining productivity.

Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP) is widely used as a nitrogen-phosphorus fertilizer, but its role extends beyond soil application. When applied during pre-sowing seed treatment, MAP can support early plant development by delivering readily available nutrients directly at the start of germination. This approach is increasingly used to improve crop uniformity and establish stronger field stands.

Why seed treatment with MAP matters

Enhanced germination vigor

Treating seeds with MAP accelerates germination, reducing time to emergence and improving uniformity across the field. Faster and more synchronized emergence is particularly important under variable field conditions.

Early root system development

The phosphorus content in MAP plays a central role in stimulating early root growth. A well-developed root system improves access to soil moisture and nutrients, which is critical during the first stages of crop establishment.

Improved plant resilience

Early access to nitrogen and phosphorus supports stronger seedlings that are better equipped to tolerate environmental stress, including temperature fluctuations, pests, and diseases.

High nutrient availability

MAP provides nutrients in a form that is quickly absorbed by the seed and emerging plant, supporting early metabolic activity and growth.

Application methods and rates

Effective use of MAP in seed treatment depends on precise application:

• Application rate: 1–2 kg per ton of seeds
• Working solution volume: 5–20 liters per ton of seeds

Two main approaches are commonly used:

• soaking seeds in a prepared MAP solution
• combining MAP with standard seed treatment products, including crop protection agents

When combining with pesticides, compatibility testing is essential to avoid reduced efficacy or potential seed damage.

Key considerations for effective use

To ensure consistent results, several operational factors should be carefully managed:

• uniform coverage of the working solution on all seeds
• strict adherence to recommended dosages to prevent phytotoxic effects
• use of clean, good-quality water for solution preparation
• proper storage conditions for treated seeds prior to planting

Practical benefits for growers

The inclusion of MAP in pre-sowing seed treatment programs can improve field germination rates and promote more uniform crop establishment. Stronger early growth and improved root development contribute to better nutrient uptake throughout the season, supporting yield potential and overall fertilizer efficiency.

For decades, farmers and agronomists have debated whether intensive plowing improves or degrades soil health. A new international study led by the Chinese Academy of Sciences offers fresh evidence by introducing an unconventional method: monitoring soil through sound.

Published in Science, the research uses distributed acoustic sensing technology, in which fiber-optic cables detect minute underground vibrations. By sending laser pulses through the cables and analyzing their reflections, scientists can track how water moves through soil in real time without disturbing it.

The system was deployed across a 160-meter-wide experimental farm in the United Kingdom, allowing researchers to observe subsurface water dynamics continuously and at high resolution—something not possible with traditional soil sampling methods.

Soil as a living water network

The study highlights that healthy soil behaves less like loose dirt and more like a structured, living system. Its internal architecture consists of microscopic pores and channels that function as a natural water distribution network.

These interconnected pores allow rainwater to infiltrate deeply, where it can be stored and accessed by plant roots during dry periods. The system acts as a buffer, protecting crops from both drought and excess rainfall by regulating how water is absorbed, retained, and released.

How plowing and machinery alter soil behavior

In contrast, the findings show that repeated deep plowing and the use of heavy agricultural machinery can significantly disrupt this natural pore network.

When soil is compacted or mechanically disturbed, its internal channels collapse or become disconnected. As a result, water tends to accumulate near the surface rather than infiltrating deeper layers. This shallow water is more prone to evaporation, leaving deeper soil dry and reducing plants’ access to moisture during critical growth periods.

The study suggests that such changes weaken crops’ resilience, making them more vulnerable to both drought stress and extreme rainfall events.

Rethinking soil physics: the role of capillary stress

To explain these dynamics, researchers developed a “dynamic capillary stress” model that challenges conventional assumptions about soil strength. Traditional models focus primarily on overall water content, whereas the new framework emphasizes the configuration of pores and the capillary forces within them.

According to the model, thin films of water within tiny pores generate surface tension forces that act like elastic bonds, stabilizing soil structure when moisture levels are moderate. When these pores are damaged, the capillary system is altered, accelerating water loss and reducing the soil’s mechanical integrity.

This reframes soil not as a passive medium but as an active system whose structure directly governs water cycling and plant health.

Implications for farming and climate resilience

The findings carry significant implications for agricultural practices, particularly as climate variability increases. While plowing can provide short-term benefits—such as loosening topsoil and facilitating planting—it may undermine long-term soil functionality by breaking the structures that regulate water and air flow.

Preserving soil integrity could therefore become a central strategy for improving resilience to extreme weather. Reduced tillage, controlled traffic farming, and other conservation practices may help maintain the pore networks essential for sustainable productivity.

Toward real-time soil monitoring

The study also points to future applications of fiber-optic sensing in agriculture. Because cables are relatively inexpensive and scalable, they could be deployed more widely to continuously monitor soil conditions.

Combined with artificial intelligence, such systems could enable farmers to diagnose soil health in real time, optimize irrigation, and adapt field management strategies with greater precision. Researchers suggest this approach could help strengthen global food security by improving how soils are managed under increasingly challenging environmental conditions.

Source: China Daily

A Swiss court has upheld the national ban on chlorothalonil fungicides, rejecting an appeal by Syngenta and confirming that the restriction remains in force across Switzerland. In a judgment published Thursday, the Federal Administrative Court ruled that the prohibition introduced in 2020 was lawful, citing environmental risks and groundwater contamination concerns.

The ban was first imposed by the Federal Office for Agriculture in December 2019 after evidence showed that chlorothalonil metabolites—breakdown products of the chemical—were present in groundwater and drinking water. Authorities determined that these substances could pose risks to human health, leading to a withdrawal of product authorizations and a halt to sales from January 2020. Syngenta challenged the decision, arguing that the detected metabolites were not harmful to humans.

In its ruling, the court emphasized risks to aquatic ecosystems, including amphibians and fish, as sufficient grounds to justify the ban. It also noted that groundwater samples had exceeded regulatory thresholds for contaminants, reinforcing concerns over drinking water safety. The decision aligns with earlier action by the European Union, which banned chlorothalonil in 2019 on similar environmental grounds. Syngenta retains the option to appeal to Switzerland’s Federal Court.

Source: SWI swissinfo.ch

Agriculture faces mounting pressure to reduce chemical use, improve soil health, and maintain productivity. By eliminating herbicides and minimizing soil disturbance, it is possible to achieve more sustainable farming systems while lowering input and labor costs. Traditional farming practices involve heavy use of glyphosate or similar products to control weeds, but maybe there is a more elegant solution?

To discuss this, Fertilizer Daily caught up with Liron Yanay, CEO of AgriPass — the developer of a farming robot that addresses one of agriculture’s most persistent challenges: effective weed control.

FD: AgriPass has raised $7.5 million in seed funding. What milestones did you need to reach to secure this round, and how will the capital change the company’s growth trajectory over the next 12 to 24 months?

LY: We concluded the seed with a total to date of 7.5 million in funding. To continue with our go-to-market strategy and secure funding, we knew we needed to prove two things: technical viability and commercial traction.

On the technical side, we had to show that our Adaptive Selective Tilling (AST) technology was delivering positive results across various real-world conditions, demonstrating that our weeding solution could reliably distinguish different weed types and selectively eliminate them at speed and scale, without chemical inputs or significant soil disruption.  We conducted rigorous field trials across different crop types and conditions. We accomplished this by working directly with farmers across different countries, crops, soil types, and farming practices. These deployments also helped us prove commercial traction.

Farmers are always excited to see RHIC at work, and some of our early commercial sales are with farmers who participated in field trials. One of the investors in this seed round is also a farmer who uses RHIC in his fields. Investors were excited to see early validation from farmers themselves. And recognition like winning first place at the Climate Solutions Prize 2025 is important for validation. It signaled to the investment community that our solution sits at the intersection of two of the most urgent priorities in agtech, climate, and food security.

The new funding will be used to continue RHIC’s AI advancement and to scale commercial production in the U.S. and Europe. Everything accelerates as we focus on scaling, particularly in key markets where we see the biggest weeding pains and greater opportunities to empower farmers.

FD: Your RHIC platform is already deployed in the U.S. and Europe. Which geographic markets are currently driving the strongest demand, and where do you see the most significant expansion opportunities in the near term?

LY: We started by supporting small and medium farmers growing high-value crops with multiple growth cycles throughout the year, which require continuous weed control. We’re experiencing exciting momentum globally. Lately, in the Southeast U.S., particularly in Florida and Georgia, farmers are adopting RHIC for their commitment to regenerative and sustainable farming practices, while also addressing labor shortages and achieving strong ROI. Our collaboration with University Extensions has been essential to our efforts in Georgia, providing successful trial results and connections to established farmer networks that drive meaningful adoption in the region.

Policy changes around the world are really beginning to shape and increase demand for alternative weed control options. The new regulations established by the USDA last year have really helped farmers reconsider their unsustainable practices and seek alternatives, such as AgriPass’s RHIC. We have also identified a very promising opportunity in Argentina, collaborating with strategic partners, as a gateway to Latin America.

FD: Who are your primary customers today? Are you mainly targeting small- and mid-sized farms, or are larger-scale operations adopting the technology as well? How does your value proposition differ between these segments?

LY: We initiated our go-to-market strategy to address the weed pains of small to medium-sized high-value crop growers, as they represent the largest number of farms and are the last to receive valuable high-end technology. In 2027, we’re introducing a 3-bed system designed for mid- to large-scale farms that want to extend RHIC across more acreage.  Our commitment is to empower all farmers with weed control that is herbicide-free, soil-safe, and as efficient as manual weeding.

FD: Specialty crops are your initial focus. Do you plan to expand into broadacre crops or other farming systems, and what technical or economic adjustments would that require?

LY: We are training RHIC’s systems on new crops every day and will expand into soybeans and cereals. We want to help the market where we can see the most impact. AgriPass was designed to make the high-tech, or AgriTech 2.0 as we like to call it, more accessible to farmers who really need it.

FD: Labor shortages and regulatory pressure on herbicides are often cited as tailwinds for ag-robotics. From your perspective, what are the main structural forces shaping demand for automated, non-chemical weed control?

LY: Input costs are rising, herbicide resistance is increasing, labor shortages are becoming generational problems, while tightening regulations and higher wages are compounding the challenge. AgriPass sits at the intersection of soil-safe, low-tillage practices, zero herbicides, and today’s labor-smart farming.

FD: What were the biggest operational or technological challenges you faced in bringing RHIC from prototype to commercial deployment? Were there regulatory, manufacturing, or farmer adoption hurdles that proved more complex than expected?

LY: A lot of the risks were mitigated by working directly with the farmers along every step of the development process. Making sure there is market fit and that the system is designed using a simple mechanical action reduces many of the hurdles to bringing the product to market.

FD: Looking ahead, what are the key risks to scaling the business — whether related to capital intensity, competition in ag-robotics, or farmer purchasing cycles — and how are you preparing to address them?

LY: Our seed funding included a risk analysis and a mitigation plan. There is no other way than working with farmers in the market to identify needs, differentiate, and establish the right infrastructure to serve the market.

Beck’s, one of the largest U.S. seed companies, has acquired exclusive licensing rights to the SOYLEIC soybean trait from the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, moving the farmer-developed technology into broader commercial use.

The SOYLEIC trait produces high-oleic, low-linolenic soybean oil that offers greater stability without hydrogenation, extending shelf life and improving performance in high-heat food applications. The oil is positioned as a domestic alternative to imported vegetable oils.

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The trait was developed through research funded by soybean growers and conducted in collaboration with the University of Missouri and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council previously managed its intellectual property and early commercialization efforts.

Under the agreement, Beck’s will oversee seed production, agronomic positioning and market development. The company said it plans to license the trait to other seed providers while expanding its own offerings.

Starting with the 2027 planting season, Beck’s expects to introduce both non-GMO SOYLEIC varieties and versions combined with additional trait packages, including herbicide-tolerant systems.

Because the trait occurs naturally, it may face fewer regulatory constraints than some genetically engineered alternatives, potentially easing its integration with future seed technologies.

High-oleic soybeans have gained traction as food manufacturers seek oils with longer shelf life and improved labeling profiles. Wider commercialization of SOYLEIC could increase supply consistency and expand opportunities for growers participating in specialty crop contracts.

Synsus Private Label Partners has acquired Emerald Bioagriculture, a U.S.-based developer of biostimulant products, as it moves to expand its position in the fast-growing market for biological crop inputs. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The Houston-based company will incorporate Emerald’s product portfolio into its formulation and manufacturing platform, adding to its existing capabilities in contract development and private-label production for agricultural and consumer lawn and garden markets.

Synsus said integration efforts will focus on maintaining supply continuity and aligning product lines, while coordinating research and development activities. The company expects Emerald’s technologies to be deployed across a broader customer base through its existing commercial network.

Synsus provides formulation, manufacturing and packaging services to distributors and product companies, while Emerald develops bio-nutrient products designed to improve nutrient uptake and plant performance.

The integration will proceed over the coming months as companies’ operations and product portfolios are consolidated.

True Organic has expanded its retail portfolio with the launch of a new potting and planting collection, marking a strategic move beyond its established position in organic fertilizers. The Monterey-based company said the product line is designed to bring commercial-grade soil inputs to home gardeners, reflecting a broader shift toward simplified, sustainable growing solutions.

The collection includes seven soil blends tailored to specific plant types and growing conditions. Each mix is pre-fertilized with the company’s organic nutrients and incorporates materials such as coco coir as a peat alternative, alongside biochar in selected products to enhance soil structure and moisture retention. The products are OMRI-listed and registered with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and are being rolled out across retail outlets in 12 western U.S. states.

Indoor and container gardening mixes

The Indoor & Outdoor Potting Mix is positioned as a general-purpose solution for containers, houseplants, vegetables, and seedlings. It uses coco coir to improve aeration and water retention, targeting urban and small-space gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.

For edible crops, the Vegetable & Herb Potting Mix is formulated to support crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and culinary herbs. The inclusion of gypsum aims to enhance nutrient uptake and root development, addressing the needs of higher-demand plants grown in pots.

Specialty blends for specific plant types

The Cactus & Succulent Potting Mix is designed as a fast-draining medium suited to arid-adapted plants, including cacti and citrus. The formulation reflects increasing consumer interest in drought-tolerant indoor and patio plants.

For acid-loving species, the Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Planting Mix provides a targeted solution for plants such as berries, ferns, and gardenias. This segment addresses a more specialized category of home gardening, where soil pH and composition are critical.

Soil improvement and in-ground planting

The All Purpose Planting Mix is aimed at in-ground applications, including trees, shrubs, and flowers, with a focus on improving native soil structure and moisture retention. Similarly, the Vegetable & Flower Planting Mix is formulated to enhance nutrient availability and water retention in garden beds used for mixed plantings.

The All Purpose Compost serves as a soil amendment rather than a standalone growing medium, adding organic matter to improve soil health and fertility over time. This product targets gardeners focused on long-term soil regeneration and sustainable practices.

Market positioning and accessibility

The launch reflects increasing demand for integrated, ready-to-use gardening inputs as consumers seek to simplify soil management. By embedding fertilizers directly into the soil blends, the company is positioning the products as a simplified alternative to traditional multi-step feeding programs.

True Organic said the collection is priced from $7.99 and offers multiple sizes aimed at both small-scale and larger home gardening applications. The products are manufactured in the U.S. and distributed through independent garden centers and major retailers across the western region, including California, Oregon, and Colorado.

Peru has introduced new criteria to determine how organisms developed using gene-editing technologies will be classified under its existing biosafety laws, providing regulatory clarity while maintaining a longstanding ban on genetically modified crops.

The guidelines, approved by the Ministry of the Environment under Ministerial Resolution No. D000068-2026-MINAM-DM and published in the official gazette El Peruano, establish a technical process to assess whether products developed with tools such as CRISPR fall within the definition of modified living organisms (MVOs).

The measure does not alter Peru’s moratorium on the cultivation and import of genetically modified organisms, which remains in place until 2035. Instead, it addresses how newer gene-editing techniques—many of which do not involve the introduction of foreign DNA—should be evaluated under current law.

Under the framework, regulators will apply case-by-case scientific criteria to determine whether genetic changes qualify an organism as an MVO. The approach distinguishes between conventional transgenic methods and targeted genetic modifications that may resemble naturally occurring mutations.

Officials confirmed that the guidelines are intended to align regulation with advances in biotechnology and establish a consistent basis for decision-making. David Castro, director of genetic resources and biosecurity at the ministry, said the framework provides greater predictability for research institutions, universities and companies working with gene-editing tools.

The clarification could affect both domestic agriculture and export-oriented sectors. Peru’s agricultural production—ranging from staple crops such as potatoes and rice to export commodities including blueberries, grapes, avocados and asparagus—faces increasing pressure to improve yields, manage resource use and meet quality standards in international markets.

Gene-editing technologies are being explored globally as a means to improve crop resilience and productivity without expanding cultivated land or increasing input use. Clearer regulatory treatment is often viewed as a prerequisite for investment in research and commercialization.

Peru’s approach follows similar policy developments in countries including Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Canada and Japan, where regulators assess gene-edited products based on their characteristics rather than the methods used to produce them. The European Union is also considering a comparable distinction.

Yara International has reduced ammonia and urea production at its plant in Babrala, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, due to disruptions to natural gas supplies linked to the ongoing conflict. Chief Executive Svein Tore Holsether said the company was forced to curb output due to reduced availability of gas, a key feedstock, while some competitors in India have shut plants entirely.

India, a major importer of liquefied natural gas, has been particularly exposed to supply shocks following the suspension of a significant share of exports from the Persian Gulf. Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG suppliers, has halted production, driving sharp increases in gas and fertilizer prices. Holsether warned that volatility in input costs is raising concerns about global fertilizer availability and farmers’ ability to afford essential nutrients, although Yara said the impact on its financial performance would remain limited.

The company is not currently considering production cuts in Europe, where higher urea prices have so far offset rising gas costs. Meanwhile, policy discussions are intensifying in the European Union over how to support agriculture. Istvan Nagy has called for easing restrictions on Russian and Belarusian fertilizer imports, a proposal the European Commission is reviewing. Yara has opposed the idea, arguing it could undermine Europe’s domestic industry and indirectly support Russia’s war effort, as the bloc prepares a broader Fertilizer Action Plan to strengthen supply resilience.

Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture has imposed temporary restrictions on exports of ammonium nitrate, suspending the validity of all issued and pending export licenses from March 21 to April 21, 2026. The measure is intended to ensure a sufficient domestic supply of the widely used nitrogen fertilizer as demand peaks during the spring field season. Shipments under intergovernmental agreements are exempt from the restrictions.

The decision was taken by the ministry’s operational headquarters, which is responsible for monitoring fertilizer distribution to agricultural producers. Authorities said the move comes amid rising international demand for nitrogen fertilizers and is designed to prioritize domestic deliveries, helping maintain stable planting operations and avoid supply disruptions for Russian farmers.