Bacillus firmus is a beneficial, spore-forming bacterium studied for its ability to colonize the root zone, support plant development and help protect roots against certain soil-borne biological stresses. In microbial agriculture, selected strains have been investigated as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, or PGPR, and as biological agents for managing plant-parasitic nematodes. The species is now formally classified as Cytobacillus firmus, following a taxonomic reclassification of the...

Chitosan fertilizer for plants is attracting interest among farmers, horticulturists and home gardeners looking for more efficient and sustainable crop inputs. Derived mainly from chitin—a natural structural material found in crustacean shells, fungi and insects—chitosan is biodegradable and has several valuable agricultural properties. Despite the familiar term “chitosan fertilizer,” chitosan is not a complete fertilizer like NPK. It does not supply all the essential nitrogen, phosphorus,...

Zinc is required by plants in small quantities, but an inadequate supply can restrict crop establishment, development, yield, and produce quality. Applying zinc fertilizer for crops is most valuable when soil or tissue testing confirms a deficiency, when characteristic symptoms appear, or when soil conditions are known to limit zinc availability. Timing is critical. Soil-applied zinc is generally most effective before planting or at planting, while foliar zinc fertilizer can provide faster...