Enhancing iron nutrition in leafy greens with biostimulants and spectroradiometry
This innovative solution combines Bacillus-based biostimulants with a low-cost VIS–NIR spectroradiometer to boost iron nutrition in leafy greens. It offers a practical approach for improving and verifying micronutrient content directly in the field.
Overview
Iron deficiency is a significant challenge in agriculture, particularly affecting the nutritional quality of leafy greens. This solution integrates a Bacillus-based microbial biostimulant, which enhances iron availability in the soil by releasing siderophores and organic acids, with a low-cost handheld VIS–NIR spectroradiometer. This combination allows for both the improvement of iron uptake and the verification of these nutritional gains directly in the field, benefiting both growers and consumers.
Technical specifications
- Bacillus-based biostimulant: Solubilizes soil iron, enhancing plant uptake through the production of siderophores and organic acids.
- VIS–NIR spectroradiometer: Provides rapid, in-field measurements of iron-related spectral signatures from leaves, calibrated with laboratory analyses to ensure accuracy.
- AI models: Convert spectral data into nutrient estimates, offering a transparent and farmer-friendly diagnostic tool.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, this solution is in the early stages of development. Initial phases involve selecting suitable biostimulants and spectroradiometers, establishing field sites, and developing calibration models. Further validation will focus on workflow accuracy, repeatability, and ease of use in real-world conditions.
About Louisiana State University
Louisiana State University is a flagship public land-grant university in Baton Rouge, serving a large student body and a comprehensive research enterprise. A research and technology park provides incubator space, corporate labs, and direct access to campus expertise. A statewide extension network and field sites connect companies to real-world testing, and system-wide health sciences partners support clinical collaboration. Gulf Coast location offers access to suppliers, infrastructure, and demonstration sites. Research is backed by federal funding from NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, and DoD, and a technology transfer office streamlines IP and startup formation.
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