ORGANIC SOIL IMPROVER: Providing a full nutritional profile for you soil to make it healthier and more productive
Spring finally feels as though it has arrived, but with many fields coming into the season off the back of wet winter weather that saturated soils, managing and improving soil biology, now, is a top priority.
With conditions improving, farmers are being presented with the opportunity to boost soil health and optimise nutrition early in newly growing crops. Unlocking underground activity is essential when it comes to optimising soil health; future success doesn’t always start where you can see it!
Soil testing in spring can be a good way to determine the state of soils and help growers identify the levels of bacteria, fungi and protozoa in soils to give an indication of the health of their underground livestock. Taking this view ahead of spring management work is also being seen to help offset overheads traditionally spent on synthetic fertilisers.
There’s no escaping the volatility of fertiliser prices currently, with reports far and wide reflecting how geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to intensify their impact on market value. The disruption of supply chains into the UK is a distinct possibility, meaning premiums have increased across gas, oil and freight markets. And, with the UK being highly dependent on the Middle East for key input imports, especially fertiliser, there are risks that costs could increase as production reduces, ultimately impacting prices and margins for farmers tied into fertiliser-dependent cropping systems.
Will Marris, Regenerative Agronomist & Soil Consultant at Terrafarmer, said: “With the recent sharp rise in nitrogen price, improving efficiency this season will be vital. Soil improvers, in my case Sea2Soil, help by feeding amino acids into the soil and plants, and feed biology to help with nutrient cycling. We have used Sea2Soil for a number of years at Terrafamer and have always been impressed with the results. Last year, we put it to the test during the Terrafarmer Biologicals Project on 5 farms across Wales. It showed good improvements to soil biological indicators, alongside forage quality and leaf nutrient content. At the farm at home and other customers’ farms, I have found Sea2Soil drives clover growth in grass/clover or diverse leys. Applying S2S seems to drive clover above-ground biomass, but more importantly, drives nodulation (nodule formation and size, alongside the trace minerals, calcium/boron/molybdenum, required to fix atmospheric N into plant available forms) to increase clover’s N fixation. Sea2Soil has become a vital component in my foliar nitrogen mixes, providing a carbon source to buffer the urea and feed plant available amino acids into the leaf to drive growth and, more importantly, nitrogen use efficiency. In an arable context, I use it as part of my pest management strategy, for example, 10L/Ha at 2-3 leaf in cereals to help manage aphids and prime soil biology, alongside balanced nutrition. If farmers are looking to try a foliar nitrogen approach, then the addition of a product like this one is a fundamental part of a successful system.”
For cereals and oilseeds, fertiliser is one of the highest variable costs for crop production, and if fertiliser prices were to rise sharply, farm application rates could decrease as a result, potentially impacting yields and margins. Grass-based dairy or beef systems also remain exposed to fertiliser price volatility. One way in which growers could shield their farm businesses from these threats or lessen the impact is to apply a soil improver, such as Sea2Soil, to reduce the amount of synthetic NPK fertiliser required for each crop, as Grant James, Business Development Consultant for Sea2Soil explains: “Overall synthetic fertiliser reductions of up to 20-25% are realistic and possible in many situations through careful and planned use of Sea2Soil in a programmed approach. In some systems, where other regenerative and biological approaches are combined, reductions in fertiliser use could become even higher. Vitally, the health of the soil is improved at the same time, which is invaluable, so it’s a great option for growers.”
Products like Sea2Soil can be a good choice for feeding both crops and soil microorganisms, such as beneficial bacteria, which in turn release additional soil nutrients to continue feeding growing crops. Revitalising biological activity in soils fosters an environment in treated soils where beneficials, including earthworms, thrive, helping improve soil aeration, release nutrients in bioavailable form to plants, increase plant resilience to stress, and promote healthy crop growth.
This is not a flash-in-the-pan solution; the process can take time, depending on soil conditions, moisture and temperature. In most spring crops, it is far better to apply the product while the crop is young and first establishing, to provide an optimal boost of essential nutrition exactly when the crop really needs it.
As a useful source of key macronutrients and micronutrients, the right product can also help counter any leaching losses of soil nutrients like nitrogen and sulphur over the winter period, where surface water or saturated topsoil can wash away vital nutrition held in upper soils layers. These upper layers which hold the phosphorus, nitrogen and carbon will help overwintered crops or newly sown spring crops kickstart their spring growth or establishment. More farmers are starting to use the product very cost-effectively to reduce N fertiliser inputs, help soils thrive and reduce crop stress.
James Bucher, of Bucher Farms in Suffolk, added: “We’ve had great success in reducing our synthetic inputs with fish hydrolysate. As a multi-nutrient organic fertiliser and soil feed, it really suits our regenerative farming system. At Knettishall, we apply fish hydrolysate several times through the spring/early summer; we see positive crop responses and many more earthworms than we had before we started using it.”
Colin Chappell, of Chappell Farms in North Lincolnshire, commented: “We use fish hydrolysate in three ways. The main one has traditionally been to 'apologise' for moving the soil. In the early transitional years of direct drilling, when there may be a need for low-disturbance subsoiling, we need to feed soil microbes so they don't begin to destroy soil organic matter. You are providing them with another food source. Once through that stage, we are attempting to correct the soil microdome from one that has become bacterial dominant to one where you enable protozoa to feed on the bacteria, creating a more balanced or even fungal-dominant structure, again by feeding the soil microbes. We do this by adding Sea2Soil to a cocktail that can be placed around the seed at drilling. Thirdly, we have noticed how quickly plants absorb fish hydrolysate as a food source. Unlike artificial fertiliser, which has to be processed within the plant and thus has an initial energy-hungry phase, weakening cell structures, Sea2Ssoil, with its high volume of amino acids, quickly gets into the crop and can rectify deficiencies and combat things like cabbage stem flea beetle in oilseed rape. By creating a more balanced plant, the need for higher volumes of nitrate can be offset.”
A fish hydrolysate, packed with natural amino acids and fatty acids derived from its natural fish oil content, Sea2Soil is rich in essential nutrients N (5% organic Nitrogen equivalent to several KG/ha of synthetic Nitrgoen), P and K, and also provides calcium, magnesium and other trace elements in bioavailable form, establishing a good basis for crop nutritional plans to suit all farming systems; conventional, organic or regenerative.
Versatility and ease of use are crucial to successful take-up of the product, continues Grant: “Being compatible in tank mix with a wide range of plant protection products and the ability to apply multiple applications during the growing season ensures flexibility for growers. In winter-sown crops, a split timing approach of autumn followed by early spring has been the most effective. In spring-sown crops, applying pre-drilling, pre-emergence or as soon after drilling as possible works very well.”
Making the most of organic materials, like the fish hydrolysate found in Sea2Soil, is already proving a beneficial step for growers looking to balance the real risks associated with the cost and availability of synthetic fertilisers this season.
Season One of The Sea2Soil Podcast is complete! Across six episodes, we’ve heard from six expert voices and listened to their insights into the future of soil health and regenerative farming.
And what a journey it's been. From conservation agriculture principles to real-world regenerative systems, from microbial activity to amino acid applications, we’ve explored the challenges and opportunities facing modern farming through honest, expert-led conversations.
Hosted by our Business Development Manager, Grant James, each episode brought together leading voices from across the UK and Europe to tackle the questions that matter most to growers, agronomists, and farm advisors working to build healthier, more resilient farming systems.
What we covered
We kicked off with Steve Townsend from Soil First Farming, who set the tone by explaining why chemistry, physics, and biology must work together for truly healthy soils. Steve’s insights into conservation agriculture and the role of BASE-UK in farmer-led knowledge exchange reminded us that sustainable change happens through community and shared learning.
Regen Ben opened the doors to his Herefordshire farm in Episode Two, showing us regenerative farming in action. His candid discussion about profitability, biodiversity gains, and how Sea2Soil fits into his system across cereals, potatoes, and agroforestry proved that regenerative practices and commercial success can go hand-in-hand.
In Episode Three, James Warne from Soil First Farming introduced us to the concept of ‘underground livestock’, exploring how feeding soil microorganisms is just as crucial as feeding the crops above ground. His practical advice on boosting microbial activity gave listeners tangible steps to improve soil health from the ground up.
Joel Williams delivered a masterclass in Episode Four, breaking down the science of amino acids and soil conditioners. His expert knowledge on application timing, particularly heading into autumn, offered invaluable guidance for growers looking to enhance soil fertility and build long-term productivity.
Episode Five took us to Claydon Farms with Simon Revell, where we explored two years of Sea2Soil trials alongside the Claydon Opti-Drill System. Simon’s insights into establishment technology, soil structure, and upcoming Net Zero trial work with Nottingham University showed the exciting direction farm innovation is heading.
We closed the season with Marian Dichevski, who gave us a window into farming in Bulgaria and across Europe. Marian’s perspective on climate challenges, drought conditions, and the growing need for products like Sea2Soil in European markets reminded us that soil health is a global conversation.
The bigger picture
Running through every episode, however, was a commitment to practical, implementable knowledge. These weren’t theoretical discussions. They were field-based insights from people working directly with soils, facing real challenges and finding real solutions that are already working in their fields.
Whether you’re exploring regenerative practices for the first time or fine-tuning an established hybrid system, this podcast season offered something for everyone.
To our guests: thank you for your time, your expertise, and your willingness to share openly about both successes and challenges. Your contributions have created a resource that will support farmers and advisors for seasons to come.
To everyone who listened, subscribed, and shared episodes: thank you for being part of this community. The feedback we’ve received has been genuinely encouraging, and it’s clear these conversations are resonating with people working to farm better, smarter, and more sustainably.
What’s next?
All six episodes remain available to stream on Spotify and watch on YouTube. If you missed any along the way, now’s the perfect time to catch up. Each episode stands alone, so dive in wherever your interests lie.
As for what comes next, watch this space. The conversations around soil health and regenerative farming are far from over, and we’re committed to continuing to bring expert voices and practical insights to the community. 2026 is already looking very exciting…
Terrafarmer-run farm trials, funded through an Innovate UK research project, are testing and comparing a range of different biological stimulants applied to grassland. Results so far have shown their potential to reduce inputs and improve grass quality.
How has Sea2Soil performed?
Sea2Soil fish hydrolysate delivers a wide range of plant-available amino acids, macronutrients and trace elements to both the crop and soil. Sea2Soil performed very highly in all trial measurements taken, including giving increases in kilograms of dry matter (DM)/ha, crude protein, trace element availability, and microbial biomass, when compared with a control treatment.
According to regenerative agronomist and soil consultant Will Marris at Terrafarmer, a number of products tested (including Sea2Soil) are improving crude proteins and sugar. “If that goes into a silage clamp, you’ve got more sugars for the fermentation process. If you get a better fermentation, you get better-quality forage.”
Out of 7 biological product treatments tested in the trials (over 7 different farm sites), Sea2Soil ranked No.1 and performed highest for crude protein improvement (at 136.225 g/kg) compared to all other products and the control treatment. Sea2Soil also ranked No.3 out of all treatments for improving microbial biomass in mid-season assessments taken. Each farm trial site used large 20 x 160m strips to test all treatments and baseline analysis measurements were taken for all products tested for comparative purposes.
Sea2Soil fish hydrolysate, as a naturally high source of protein and carbohydrate, is a perfect choice for improving soil biology. “By feeding the beneficial underground livestock in the soil i.e. the bacteria and fungi, these in turn are helping with the mobilisation of vital trace minerals such as boron, manganese, and magnesium,” says Grant James, Business Development Manager, Sea2Soil.
Soil, leaf, and forage tests from the trials show more of those nutrients being readily plant-available moving from the soil into the leaf, and therefore into the forage. “This could even reduce the need to supplement trace minerals given to livestock through licks or drenches,” suggests Will.
How biologicals like Sea2Soil work to benefit plants
Traditional fertilisers such as urea or ammonium nitrate prills have an efficiency rate of about 50%. By contrast, solubilised and foliar-applied alternatives can be almost twice as efficient, so less nitrogen is needed. “If foliar nitrogen is applied with biologicals such as molasses, fish hydrolysate, and fulvic acid, nitrogen use efficiency is improved, as you’re applying plant-available nitrogen to the leaf, which is a more direct route into the plant. That’s safer for the plant, but also beneficial and safer for the soil,” explains Will. “You’re feeding the plant and the soil at the same time, and the nitrogen doesn’t get lost via volatilisation or tied up in the carbon and nitrogen cycles in the soil.”
By applying biological and soluble fertilisers like Sea2Soil, farmers can build soil function and fertility, carbon and organic matter, all generally at reduced cost. “Biologicals are inherently more sustainable than a manufactured synthetic nitrogen source,” continues Will. “We’re not saying don’t use any, just try to use a bit less and make it more efficient.”
Valuable cost savings being realised
Using biological and foliar fertilisers can also bring significant cost savings. For example, a grass-based, multicut system might use 250kg/ha of nitrogen. Based on a standard urea application, using a 46% urea product, at a cost of 46p/kg, the cost would be £115/ha. Will explains: “Where we have added in two biological products, molasses and fish hydrolysate (Sea2Soil), to the foliar nitrogen mix, we had a saving of £5/ha,” he says. “A total cost of £110/ha to get a more efficient form of nitrogen into the plant, while reducing nitrogen use by 20%, is quite significant – and you’re feeding the soil.” He adds that nitrogen application rates can, over time, be reduced even further.
“You could easily reduce inputs starting at 25% to 50%, but that wants to be done over a few years in a managed reduction,” he advises. In addition, there is the potential for farmers to save on inputs such as mineral supplements because of the improved flow of nutrients from soil to forage with Sea2Soil and other biologicals.
Timing of application is important
The time of day and weather conditions can make a significant difference to the effectiveness of biologicals and foliar nitrogen, Will says: “If you’re looking at foliar nitrogen plus biologicals, it’s important to time your application right. Early in the morning is a good time, because that’s when the stomata are open.”
He adds that in the morning, especially, the plant will not be overly stressed, so is better at taking in the product, leading to greater efficiencies. While temperature is an important consideration, UV index and humidity should be considered first when applying biological fertilisers and foliar applications.
“When you have a high UV index, the plant is conserving moisture, and it’s not going to want to take in any nutrition,” says Will. “So the biological fertiliser or soluble nitrogen will sit on the leaf and can scorch or burn it, particularly if you’ve got urea in there. It’s best to apply these when the UV index is low and humidity is high. Humidity means moisture, and that means stomata are open to take in these products.”
Sea2Soil recommends applying the product to grassland in 2 or 3 split applications in early spring, mid-spring and late-spring or early summer, and it is also worth taking into consideration grazing cycles as well, so product application is timed around those periods, as Grant explains: “For grassland and herbal leys, applying Sea2Soil at 10 L/ha just before the start of the active spring growth period sets a good baseline and then follow-up with at least one repeat application in May.”
Multiple Sea2Soil foliar applications of 5-10 L/ha can be made in the season up to 3-6 times a year, and Terrafarmer trials work is showing that a ‘little but often’ approach to applications can work well in many grassland situations.
For more information about trials work with Sea2Soil or about using the product this season, please contact Grant James directly.
T: 07976 879646
Acknowledgments: Sea2Soil would like to acknowledge Terrafarmer Innovate-UK trials work and
FW / FWi 04 Nov 2025 article ‘Biological Stimulants: Are they good for grassland?’, read the full article here.
How Natural Systems Inspire Sea2Soil’s Regenerative Approach
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