A Guide to the Types of Biostimulants

Biostimulants are still relatively unknown for domestic gardeners and generally the terminology used is not something we are familiar with. However, biostimulants have been used for many years in professional agriculture, horticulture and greenkeeping.

What are the different types of biostimulants?

At Greenman Plant Care, our definition of a biostimulant is as follows:

"A biostimulant when applied to a plant or seed, or to its immediate environment, can bring about beneficial change without becoming incorporated into the plant structure. It may boost nutrient uptake and influence metabolic energy usage, therefore helping the plant to better achieve its potential, especially at times of stress."

To aid understanding, we’ve outlined some different types of biostimulants below, and explained where our products fit into these categories.

1. Microorganisms

These biostimulants include the introduction of non-pathogenic bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi to the plant. However, the microorganisms chosen need to be plant specific, and this makes it a difficult method of biostimulant application for domestic gardeners.

2. Simple biostimulants

Simple biostimulant compounds will consist of just the single source in each product. These may include:

• Seaweed extracts
• Amino acids
• Fulvic and humic acids

3. Complex biostimulants

Complex biostimulants come from multiple sources. They combine the benefits of the ingredients listed above and positively impact:

• Germination
• Root development
• And chlorophyll production

They also go one step further, as the ingredients work synergistically, meaning that the results upon application is greater than the sum of each single component.

Greenman Plant Care products are complex biostimulant products. We believe this is the best way to ensure a broad spectrum of effects on your garden’s growth. We can also include small doses of bioactive components, such as bioflavinoids, in a format that is easy to deliver to the plant.

Browse our products and find out how simple it is to have a healthier and happier garden