BioFrass – pesticide-free plant protection and nutrition

Challenge:

Fusarium (a fungus that causes plant diseases) is a growing problem in many Danish nurseries. This is mainly due to the fact that the fungicides used in the past are no longer legal on the Danish market.

The products available on the market have a partial growth-inhibiting effect, which is why the use of these products should be avoided.

Solution:

The goal of the project is to develop and test a natural fertilizer product that can not only reduce pesticide consumption, but also reduce the use of artificial fertilizers in horticulture. The product, BioFrass, will be produced from residues from insect production, frass (insect fertilizer). The success criterion for the project is a demonstrated benefit in terms of improved plant health and reduced pesticide use in a controlled growth trial in a relevant environment.

Impact:

The majority of horticultural production takes place outdoors with the risk of direct pesticide and nutrient leaching. Pesticide use threatens Danish drinking water production and harms local flora and fauna. Fungicide consumption is expected to be reduced by 30% by converting to BioFrass if it can be proven to be useful through the Knowledge Bridge project.