Aquagel, a company at the forefront of agricultural innovation, claims its new product Regenr8—a blend of micronized volcanic rock and organic biochar—can significantly reduce fertilizer requirements while improving soil carbon content. This bold assertion comes from Clayton Postma, managing director of Aquagel, who believes combining these two elements enhances their individual benefits, akin to the synergistic effects observed in diverse crop rotations.

Recent trials conducted during the 2023 winter cereal season at the Tygerhoek Research Farm have shown promising results. The study involved replacing portions of a standard fertilizer mix with Regenr8 in wheat crops. Where 30% of the fertilizer was substituted with Regenr8, yields increased notably to 3,872 tons per hectare, compared to 3,262 tons from the control plot. Moreover, this treatment enhanced soil carbon content and organic matter significantly, suggesting a sustainable boost in soil health.

Further analyses by SGS Laboratories revealed that the highest Regenr8 substitution level resulted in increased soil enzymatic activities essential for nutrient availability to plants, and improved water retention and nitrate availability. These enhancements are crucial for reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting a healthier crop environment.

However, the success of Regenr8 is not without skepticism. Dr. Johann Strauss, an agronomist with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, cautions that the results, while encouraging, need further validation over multiple seasons and locations to rule out any anomalies.

As farmers begin to adopt Regenr8, encouraged by its potential to lower nitrogen use and enhance crop yields, the agricultural community watches closely. This innovative approach could reshape farming practices, making them more sustainable and profitable in an era where environmental concerns are paramount.

READ MORE: Will a biochar and volcanic rock blend reduce fertiliser needs?