Objective:
This year, we put Bio-Gel®, a bio-based polymer fertilizer coating, to the test across corn and alfalfa fields in Southeastern Minnesota and the Central Midwest. The goal? To see how Bio-Gel performs in different soil types and cropping systems.
Whether used in organic or conventional farming, Bio-Gel helped improve nutrient delivery, reduce salt stress, and boost forage quality and yield – especially in soil that typically struggles with compaction or inconsistent moisture.
Key Results:
1. Best Results in Heavy Soils
In soils like Greenbush silt loam and Webster clay loam, Bio-Gel made a major difference. These soils are known for poor drainage and high compaction, but Bio-Gel helped:
- Buffer harmful salts
- Improve nitrogen uptake
- Increase early plant growth in corn
- Boost alfalfa yield and digestibility
In Webster clay loam:
- Soil moisture increased by 6%
- Alfalfa dry matter yield jumped by 26%
- Forage digestibility improved by 20%
2. Stronger Forage Quality
In Southeastern Minnesota alfalfa trials, Bio-Gel helped deliver better livestock feed:
- Crude protein up to 7%
- Lysine (+7%), Leucine (+8%), and other key amino acids increased
- Calcium, boron, and zinc levels also improved
This not only boosts feed value but reduces the need for expensive additives.
3. Better Salt and Moisture Retention
Bio-Gel helped reduce sodium levels by 10% and improved osmotic regulation, which is key in soils prone to salt buildup or moisture stress.
4. Responsive to Different Farming Systems
In conventional corn systems, Bio-Gel increased:
- Soil temperature (+6%)
- Leaf nitrogen (+2%)
- Crop vigor early in the season
In organic systems, results were more modest due to slower nutrient release – but Bio-Gel still helped with moisture retention and salt control, which support long-term soil health.
How Bio-Gel® Works
Bio-Gel isn’t just another fertilizer – it’s a smart coating that enhances how nutrients interreact with soil and plants.
It supports plant health through:
- Osmotic regulation (managing salt stress and water balance)
- Moisture retention
- Improved fertilizer flowability and reduced caking
- Salt index reduction, lowering the risk or ion shock
It works in both organic and conventional systems, with results showing increased nutrient efficiency and soil function in all tested conditions.
Soil Type Matters
Not all soil responds the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Soil Type | Traits | Bio-Gel Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Greenbush Silt Loam | Fine-textured, compacted | ↑ Early corn vigor, ↑ N uptake, ↓ salt stress |
| Webster Clay Loam | Heavy clay, poor drainage | ↑ Soil moisture, ↑ Alfalfa yield (+26%), ↑ Digestibility (+20%) |
| Osco Silt Loam | Well-drained, moderate organic matter | Modest impact in organic corn; good for moisture & salt buffering |
| Port Byron Silt Loam | Silty, high nutrient cycling potential | ↑ Alfalfa nutrient efficiency and quality |
Management Systems Matter Too
Our on-farm trials made on thing clear: Bio-Gel works best when nutrients are available to plant. That means conventional systems – where nutrients are immediately accessible and see faster and stronger responses.
In organic systems, where nutrient release is slower, Bio-Gel’s benefits are still present but take longer to show up.
Agronomic Takeaways
- Heavy soils see the biggest benefit from Bio-Gel – especially for moisture and salt management.
- Alfalfa and corn showed measurable yield and quality improvements.
- Farming system compatibility: Bio-Gel fits into both organic and conventional programs but performs best with readily available nutrients.
- Forage value is significantly enhanced – making it a win for livestock producers.
Conclusion:
Bio-Gel is proving to be more than just a coating – it’s a performance enhancer for both your soil and your crop. By improving how water and nutrients interact with roots, Bio-Gel helps crops thrive even in tough soil conditions.
As more trials continue throughout the season, Bio-Gel is making a strong case for wider adoption in performance-focused and sustainable agriculture.