Technology reduces impacts of phytotoxicity in soybean cultivation

The challenge of increasing efficiency in soybean cultivation requires a complex chain of care. An example of this is the attention required to nodulation and rooting, as this is where the so-called diazotrophic bacteria, which help in the absorption of nitrogen, a fundamental element for plant development. And thanks to technology solutions, such as Vitaphol Soymax from Satis, today it is possible to preserve microorganisms in the face of phytotoxicity from external agents applied to crops. Field tests carried out with the product indicate a reduction from 41% to just 9,4% in the scale of visual effects caused by this process.

The action of diazotrophic bacteria allows plants to capture and fix nitrogen available in the air, in addition to the concentration of various minerals. However, the use of herbicides in crop management requires special attention to precisely preserve this capacity. “Even though soybeans are resistant to herbicides, which in turn are also important in cultivation, bacteria are susceptible to the effects of these products”, explains agronomist and National Development and Research Manager at Satis, Aedyl Lauar.

In short, the herbicide prevents microorganisms from producing compounds that are vital for the plant's survival. The solution, therefore, is to supply these compounds and preserve the health of the bacteria that, consequently, will guarantee nitrogen fixation.

Technology in favor of production

To reduce the impacts of phytotoxicity and preserve the good performance of soybeans, the Minas Gerais company Satis, a specialist in plant nutrition, has Vitaphol Soymax in its portfolio. It is a foliar application technology rich in cobalt, molybdenum, zinc and amino acids. Its use in conjunction with herbicides guarantees greater protection to root nodules, increasing nitrogen absorption.

Company research evaluated that, 10 days after applying only herbicides, the plants presented a percentage of 41% on the phytotoxicity scale (visual symptoms). In another area, where herbicides were applied together with Vitaphol Soymax, this percentage was only 9,4%. Furthermore, crops treated with the product in association with other inputs showed an average yield of 10% to 20% higher than areas that did not receive the solution.