Plant Biostimulants: A Categorical Review, Their Implications for Row Crop Production, and Relation to Soil Health Indicators

Summary

Plant biostimulants are specialty products used to increase crop production and are quickly becoming common in the agricultural seed and chemical marketplace. Unlike traditional crop inputs, such as fertilizers or pesticides, biostimulants are unique in that a single product may have multiple avenues for influencing crop growth and development based on both the timing and the placement of application. This review presents a summary of the current status and descriptions of plant biostimulants with available literature on their uses in the row crop production of maize (Zea mays L.), soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), wheat (Triticum aestivum), and other major crop species. Biostimulants have much potential to improve crop production through enhanced yields, grain quality, and increased susta