Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about how BF4® works, application methods or expected results? Below are answers to the most common questions from growers, agronomists and agricultural professionals. As always, please be sure to read and follow all labels and application guidelines.
What is a plant biostimulant?
A plant biostimulant is a product that enhances plant growth and performance by stimulating natural biological processes rather than directly supplying nutrients. Biostimulants improve nutrient uptake, increase stress tolerance and support overall plant health. They often include ingredients such as seaweed (kelp) extracts, amino acids and beneficial microorganisms.
How is BF4® different?
Traditional fertilizers primarily supply nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. BF4® works differently by improving how plants access and use those nutrients. Its combination of marina algal extract, amino acids and beneficial microbes enhances plant metabolism, supports soil biology and increases nutrient efficiency — helping crops perform better with existing fertility programs.
Agritein products function as both a biostimulant and a biofertilizer. They stimulate plant processes (biostimulant effect) while also improving nutrient availability and soil biology (biofertilizer effect), delivering a dual-action approach to crop performance.
Why are plant biostimulants so important?
Abiotic stress is increasing. Modeling suggests that since 1961, anthropogenic climate change has reduced agricultural “total factor productivity” globally by 21%, with even stronger impacts in warmer regions.
Fertilizer is inefficient and can cause nutrient losses. Research shows less than 50% of synthetic N and 15% of P inorganic fertilizers applied are utilized by crops and Synthetic N fertilizers account for 2-3% of global GHG emissions and also contribute to nitrate leaching into groundwater and waterways. With limited natural deposits of critical elements and rising costs to produce fertilizers from them, maximizing NUE is a growing priority.
Is BF4® a replacement for other products?
No. BF4® is designed to complement existing fertility programs, not replace them. It improves nutrient uptake and efficiency, allowing growers to maximize the return on their current inputs.
It is designed to be compatible with many common fertilizers and crop protection products. However, growers should always follow label recommendations and conduct jar tests when mixing new combinations.
While not a direct replacement, BF4® may allow growers to optimize or potentially reduce inputs over time by improving nutrient efficiency and soil performance.
What crops can BF4® be used on?
Its flexible formulation allows it to perform across diverse growing systems and environments.
How does BF4® improve crop performance?
BF4® improves crop performance through three primary mechanisms:
- Stimulating plant metabolism with amino acids
- Activating soil biology through beneficial microbes
- Increasing nutrient availability and uptake
These combined effects result in stronger roots, improved stress tolerance and higher yield potential.
How quickly can results be seen?
Some benefits, such as improved plant vigor and stress response, may be observed during the growing season. Yield and quality improvements are typically measured at harvest.
Where can I purchase BF4®?
Agritein partners with distributors, retailers and agronomy professionals to bring its products to market. Opportunities are available for qualified partners.
