How To: What is Seaweed Extract Best Used For?

Seaweed is a completely natural and sustainable form of nutrition.

Most seaweed extracts are made from kelp which is rich in essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, and nitrogen. It is also known to have more than 70 crucial minerals, vitamins, and enzymes.

Here are some of the benefits of using a seaweed biostimulant:

Stimulates the plants resistance to disease

Seaweed can improve the plant’s tolerance to stress by improving its overall health. The seaweed boosts a plant’s immune system making it more resistant to diseases and pests. Potassium, for example, protects the plant from extreme temperatures and disease, by thickening the cell walls.

Soil quality is improved

If seaweed is added to the soil, this increases the organic matter and by doing so, this works towards improving the soil consistency and texture. Microorganisms present in the soil are quickly activated. These act as catalysts and in turn improve the soil biology.

Environmentally friendly

Seaweed-based biostimulants are developed from organic sources and are therefore non-toxic and completely safe to use on plants. They have no harmful effects on the environment and likewise do not harm humans or pets in any kind of way.

More gardeners and landscapers are choosing them alongside conventional fertilisers. 

Quicker germination

There is sufficient evidence which suggests that seed coated in seaweed extract germinates faster and has a larger root mass. As a result, the plant grows more effectively and quite often survives longer than a standard plant. Seedlings soaked in seaweed extract are also less prone to transplant shock.

It is also common for plants that are treated with seaweed to produce more flowers. This may be because a higher seed germination rate leads to better yields.

Less leaching

Leaching is caused by nutrients getting pushed down in the soil and out of the root zone. This is often caused by rainfall and irrigation. Over time the nutrients are pushed so far down into the soil that the roots can’t access them.

Seaweeds help bind nutrients to the soil, and are then readily available to the plant roots instead of leaching into the lower layers of soil.

When is the best time to apply a liquid seaweed?

Seaweed products can be used in the same way you would apply a conventional fertiliser, organic fertiliser or any other plant tonic. The best time to apply the product is when plants are actively growing, usually between March and September but suitable all year round. Ideally, you would look to apply it early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are cool and there is no direct sunlight.

Should I use a liquid seaweed?

Seaweed can immensely benefit the plant’s overall health. It contains a fantastic array of minerals and trace elements and can improve the performance of the plant. Use it and get ready to see some impressive results.

For a market leading seaweed biostimulant, look no further than SeaAction Liquid Seaweed.