More and more growers are seeking natural yet effective solutions to increase yield and quality. This is where biostimulants play a key role, especially organic acids such as humic and fulvic acids. Discover how these gifts of nature can support the healthy development of your plants while taking soil life to the next level.

As the global cannabis market experiences explosive growth – projected to reach 75 billion dollars by 2029 – demand for sustainable cultivation solutions is also increasing. One of the most promising innovations in this field is the use of biostimulants, particularly organic acids, which naturally support plant development.

 

What is a cannabis biostimulant?

Biostimulants are natural substances or microorganisms that do not act as direct nutrients but support plant nutrient uptake and stress resistance. According to the European Union definition, the purpose of biostimulants is to improve the following plant characteristics:

• Efficiency of nutrient use

• Tolerance to abiotic stress

• Quality traits

• Availability of nutrients in the soil or root zone

Main types of biostimulants

 

• Microbial: e.g. mycorrhizal fungi, Trichoderma, spirulina
• Non-living: humic acids, fulvic acids, amino acids, peptides
• Innovative: fermented plant extracts (FPE), nanotechnology

The role of organic acids in cannabis growth

Humic and fulvic acids are formed from the decomposition of organic matter in the soil and play a key role in soil health. In the case of cannabis, these substances not only improve nutrient uptake but also:

• Enhance photosynthesis
• Support root growth
• Stabilize pH levels
• Promote the proliferation of microbial life

Source: Cannabis Research Journal<

Innovations in Cannabis Biostimulants

Microbial Biostimulants

• Mycorrhiza
• Trichoderma
• Spirulina

Protein hydrolysates and FPE

They contain amino acids and peptides that stimulate enzymatic activity. Fermented plant extracts (FPE) can be made at home and help improve the soil microbiome.

 

How to use biostimulants for cannabis cultivation

Choose the right type for your goal:

• For root development: humic acid, mycorrhiza
• For stress resistance: amino acids, peptides
• For nutrient utilization: fulvic acid, spirulina

Application methods

• Soil drench: fungi, biofertilizers
• Foliar spray: humic acid, fulvic acid, amino acids

Product recommendations from the Grow Island selection

 

• Plagron Start Up
• Biobizz Bio-Grow
• Advanced Nutrients Humic Acid
• Biobizz Try-Pack Indoor

 

The future: more natural and efficient cultivation

The market for cannabis biostimulants is poised for major growth. Regulations are increasingly supporting the reduction of synthetic inputs, while the acceptance of organic solutions continues to rise.

Summary: Why use it?

• Improves nutrient uptake
• Increases stress tolerance and vitality
• Enhances yield and quality
• Environmentally friendly and sustainable
• Ideal for organic cultivation

Further reading: Nutrient-related issues in cannabis cultivation