ICL’s breakthrough range of Fibagro Advance woodfibre grades will take centre stage on its stand at the Four Oaks Trade Show this September (Stand B30-32).
Showcasing the latest advances in Levington Advance sustainable growing media, the stand will feature progress in peat alternatives – as well as the associated nutrition and wetting agent technologies needed to optimise plant production.
“Replicating what we developed with quality peat growing media, we are screening and blending different Fibagro Advance woodfibre fractions to optimise the performance of our peat-reduced and peat-free mixes,” says UK sales manager, Adrian Thirtle-Watts. “Supporting the industry in its bid to go peat-free, ICL has invested heavily in R&D, including the development of a thermomechanical process which can now produce four grades of Fibagro Advance. The two new finer grades – Super Fine and Fine – complement the Standard and Coarse grades.”
ICL’s highly experienced technical team will be on hand to discuss bespoke growing media and nutrition packages, incorporating Osmocote 5 controlled release fertilisers, developed specially for sustainable growing media, as well as the extensive Universol and Peters water soluble ranges.
“With the loss of imidacloprid, the residual UK vine weevil population is on the rise,” warns Adrian. “Growers need to take a belt and braces approach to control. In addition to nematodes, programmes should include Lalguard M52, an eco-conscious solution to help control this devastating pest. Conveniently added to growing media mixes, it ensures every plant potted on the nursery is treated.”
Other stand highlights include the 3-in-1 wetting agent H2Gro and ICL’s new microbial inoculant – Vitalnova TriBoost. Promoting a healthy microbiome in sustainable growing media mixes, this biostimulant helps boost plant vitality – optimising plant quality while minimising losses.
This year’s ICL Four Oaks Seminar will be trials-led focussing on practical advances in peat-free growing. Technical manager, Andrew Wilson, will take delegates through ICL’s 2024 peat-free growing media trials – which include 100% Fibagro Advance demonstration mixes – as well as the latest peat-free Osmocote 5 trials, seeking to optimise plant growth and health. Referencing wide-ranging new European trials, attendees can also view actual plants from several UK 2024 trials.
With new regulations due on biodegradable fertiliser coatings, Andrew will provide an update on ICL’s encouraging progress in this area – including the imminent launch of a new Nitrogen fertiliser, N Boost, with a fully biodegradable coating.
