German seed producing company KWS has launched its first product, a biological seed treatment based on preserved beneficial bacteria, in partnership with biotech company Evologic Technologies.
KWS researched the stabilization of these biologicals with the Graz University of Technology, Austria. They developed a process in which bacteria are first embedded in microscopically fine beads and then applied to the seed in this preserving formulation. By applying beneficial biologicals as part of the dressing, the seedling is efficiently supported in its development right from the beginning. In addition, the amount of work required while sowing is reduced, according to the company.
The partnership’s first success is a sugar beet biostimulant that will be rolled out on the market in 2022. This product is a combination of six strains of bacteria specifically selected for sugar beet that support juvenile plant development and yield potential under stress conditions such as drought or cold. Varieties with this new technology will be available for sowing in 2022 in first European countries.
KWS is currently developing further products for KWS crops – for example rye and rapeseed – based on this technology, and will offer them as seed treatments in the KWS INITIO program.