In the face of increasingly erratic weather patterns, UK wheat growers are grappling with the challenges posed by climate change, with 95 per cent citing weather variability as a major hurdle to crop production. This has sparked a growing interest in biostimulants, substances designed to enhance plant resilience and yield. However, a recent survey conducted by Oxfordshire-based agri-tech firm SugaROx reveals a significant gap between awareness and adoption of these products.
The survey, part of an Innovate UK-funded project, found that while 88 per cent of UK wheat growers are aware of biostimulants, only 44 per cent have tried them, and most remain in the trial stage. This hesitancy stems from several factors, including a lack of independent evidence, unproven performance, and a dearth of trusted information. Farmers are also grappling with misconceptions, with 42 per cent still viewing biostimulants as fertilisers and 24 per cent as pesticides.
For agritech investors, these findings highlight a significant opportunity. The biostimulant market is ripe for growth, with over 75 per cent of farmers expressing a willingness to consider products outside their normal spray plan if the advantage is evident. However, this potential is contingent on addressing the current barriers to adoption. Clear, independent evidence of efficacy, along with robust regulation, will be key to building farmer confidence and driving market growth.
SugaROx, a spin-out from Oxford University and Rothamsted Research, is already making strides in this area. Its lead molecule, a modified version of the plant sugar trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P), has shown potential to boost yields by up to 20 per cent in field trials. The company advocates for stronger regulation, such as the EU’s Fertilising Products Regulation, to certify performance claims and accelerate the adoption of effective products.
The implications for agritech are clear. As the farming sector seeks innovative solutions to climate change, biostimulants offer a promising avenue. However, to unlock this potential, agritech firms must prioritise transparency, independent testing, and clear communication of product benefits. By doing so, they can help build farmer trust and drive the widespread adoption of biostimulants, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.