Bio N™ Fertilizer: Aiding in Sustainable Agriculture

Rice, wheat, and corn production consume over 90% of nitrogen fertilizers for cereals causing growers worldwide to use 120 million tons of fertilizer every year (Yadav et al., 2017). Nitrogen is one of the important nutrients for crop growth that may result in lower production if supply is limited.

After several laboratory and field trials, it was reported that the bacteria isolated from the roots of talahib (Saccharum spontaneum) converts nitrogen from the air into ammonium nitrogen for the soil available for plant uptake. Bio N™ fertilizer was developed by Dr. Mercedes U. Garcia and her team from the University of the Philippines Los Bañis (UPLB) in 1985. It has been used in rice, corn, and vegetables as it encourages shoot growth and root development.

This fertilizer is sold in 200-gram sachets sold for Php 150 each. Its application may include seed inoculation, direct broadcasting over seeds, or root dips in mixed water. As of March 6, 2023 its exclusive license is given to AgriSpecialist, Inc.

UPLB National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH) is promoting the use of this product. According to UPLB-Biotech, this can replace 30-50% of the total nitrogen needed by rice and corn as it can make plants healthy and green during drought or the occurrence of pests such as rice tungro and corn ear-worm attacks. With this, farmers can produce at a lower cost, increasing yield and income.

The institute continues with its goal to promote biofertilizers and biopesticides with their recently held training: “Biofertilizer, Biostimulant, and Microbial Pesticide for Sustainable Agriculture, Resilience, and Awareness” organized by the Biotechnology for Agriculture and Forestry Program (BAFP) in partnership and coordination with different local government units in the municipalities of Famy and Victoria, Laguna, and Mulanay, Quezon.