Low energy kelp shows promising results for crop yields
United KIngdom
February 17, 2026
A pioneering initiative developing low-energy techniques to convert cultivated kelp into a liquid biostimulant and livestock feed supplement has outperformed early field-trial expectations and moved decisively closer to commercial launch.
Backed by Innovate UK and working alongside Algapelago Marine Limited and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, scientists at Rothamsted designed and delivered rigorous controlled-environment trials to test how the prototype performs under abiotic stress, including drought.
Using our specialist infrastructure, we examined four foliar application rates on wheat and field bean under both well-watered and drought conditions. A second phase compared foliar and soil-based applications in wheat. These trials allowed us to pinpoint optimal dosing strategies and understand how the product interacts with plant development and soil biology.
The results confirmed that under specific conditions, kelp-derived biostimulants can deliver measurable improvements in crop growth and yield. Dr Marieme Drame, Scientific Technician at Rothamsted Research, said:
“Kelp-derived biostimulants offer a systems-based solution that works with plant and soil biology to enhance crop performance. At the optimal application rate in our wheat trials, we observed improved growth and yield, along with positive indirect effects on soil microbial activity, demonstrating clear value for productive and resilient farming systems.”
Beyond yield, we observed encouraging signals of enhanced soil microbial activity, pointing to wider system-level benefits. This is particularly important as agriculture adapts to more frequent drought events and increasing pressure to reduce chemical inputs.
Dr Hari Ram Upadhayay, Scientist in Agroecosystem Biogeochemistry at Rothamsted Research, emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in delivering credible innovation:
“Collaboration is a key to driving innovation. Here, kelp-derived biostimulants innovation holds major promise for supporting sustainable intensification as agriculture adapts to a changing climate.”
Professor Adie Collins, Science Director at Rothamsted Research, added:
“This project provides a good example of how industry and science teams can co-work together to ensure robust evidence is assembled on potential new interventions in support of sustainable and resilient agriculture in a changing and challenging world.”
The UK agri-seaweed sector has traditionally relied on wild-harvested material, but demand for sustainable, cultivated alternatives is rising rapidly. Kerr Jeferies, Market Research & Partnerships Manager at Algapelago, said:
“The insights from our direct engagement with growers have been invaluable. Hearing directly from leading farm managers and agronomists has sharpened our focus and made us even more confident in the product’s potential and market fit. We’re excited to continue engaging with these partners as we go from prototype to full commercialisation of the UK cultivated kelp biostimulant.”
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