Grow with us

Plant and soil biology go hand in hand. Specialising in regenerative seeds and biological systems,

IMAGE: Craig Smith with Daikon Radish from a forage mix

Grain and Seed Brokers are focused on growing the plants, to grow the soils, to grow production and enhance New Zealand’s farming systems. Grain and Seed Brokers have been operating for the past two years and during that time they have experienced significant growth. General Manager, Craig Smith said, “part of our growth has been in supplying a large variety of seeds and seed mixes to farmers to enhance different agricultural systems - from arable to grazing and horticulture.” Drawing from his 40 years of experience, Craig sources seed from around New Zealand and the world. “We supply farmers with quality seed and a broad range of seeds to fit their climate and soil types. We ship seed across the country, and with our depth, experience, research and understanding we are well equipped to supply the right seeds for any situation.” Alongside the brokerage, Craig and the team have recently opened the Soil Biology Lab, a laboratory which undertakes assessment of the biomass biology of soil samples, looking to identify the live and active organisms. Through their extensive contact with international researchers, Craig is looking at developing different methods for biology treatment of seed to enhance the establishment and growth of seeds. “We are working on methods and products to bio-prime seed before planting, with the goal of increasing the biological diversity in the soil and assisting farmers to develop good soil” Craig said. Good soil is alive with bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, and insects all working in a symbiotic relationship with plants. Good soil needs to always have active growing plants in the soil as disturbing it destroys these fragile ecosystems. The plants feed microbes with exudates (sugars and amino acids made by the plant during photosynthesis) which are released through plant roots. Sugars and amino acids are made up of carbon chains and up to 50% of these sugars are released out of the roots and consumed by bacteria and fungi living in the soil, forming a symbiotic relationship between the plant roots and microbes. The bacteria and fungi digest and consume organic matter and mineral particles, releasing plant available nutrients back into the soil. Quite simply, a plant feeds the microbes sugars, the microbes consume the sugars and excrete nutrients that the plant can use. To support bacteria, plant diversity, strategic grazing and biology friendly fertilisers is required. Grain and Seed Brokers are working alongside their clients to develop specialised seed mixes, recommend species and rotations that suit a localised area. In supporting the long-term improvement of soil health, clients are reducing their inputs and financial costs, limiting erosion, and preventing leaching of minerals into waterways and demands for irrigation – a future that will improve life above and below the ground. To discuss your seed requirements or enquire about an assessment of the biomass in your soil contact Craig today.

THIS PROMOTIONAL FEATURE WAS SUPPLIED BY GRAIN AND SEED BROKERS. WORDS BY RACHAEL RICKARD

Grain & Seed Brokers, Craig Smith 09a Hilton Highway, Timaru Tel 022 464 2243 craig@gsbrokers.co.nz www.gsbrokers.co.nz UP TO 3% DISCOUNT with your Ruralco Card