Farmers increasingly rely on seaweed-based fertilizers to boost plant growth naturally. But not all seaweed extracts are created equal—different species and extraction methods produce inconsistent results. Traditional extraction methods often fail to fully unlock seaweed’s potential, especially for improving both plant vitality and soil health.
The Invention
This patent introduces a new way to extract the active ingredients from a specific brown seaweed—Lessonia spp., particularly Lessonia berteroana—using a very high pH alkaline solution (above pH 11). Unlike conventional methods that risk degrading useful compounds at high pH, this process surprisingly enhances the extract’s effectiveness. The result is a powerful natural bio stimulant and fertilizer.
What’s
Innovative
The inventors use extremely alkaline conditions (pH 13.5 for 12 hours), far beyond what others have tried, to break down the seaweed’s complex fibres. This process releases a rich mix of water-soluble nutrients and bioactive substances—particularly potassium—making the extract ideal for spraying on leaves or adding to irrigation systems. This approach is counterintuitive because such harsh conditions are normally avoided, but here they deliver superior results.
Tangible Benefits
- Faster plant growth: Up to 202% more leaf mass and 145% more root mass in corn trials.
- Healthier soil: Enhanced microbial activity and nutrient cycling.
- Stronger harvests: Better root systems and higher yields in crops like lettuce, grapes, and fruit trees.
- Ease of use: Compatible with modern farming tools like foliar sprays and drip systems.
Broader
Impact
This innovation promotes sustainable agriculture, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers while boosting crop performance. It helps farmers improve soil quality, reduce water usage, and grow healthier food—naturally.