A field trial in Spain demonstrated the benefits of HaifaStim™ Wall-Up in Iceberg lettuce cultivation. The silicon-rich formulation improved plant resistance, increased head weight, reduced tip-burn, and extended postharvest shelf life, highlighting its potential to enhance both yield and quality in agricultural practices.
In the ever-evolving world of agriculture, finding innovative solutions to improve crop yield and quality is essential. One such breakthrough is HaifaStim™ Wall-Up, a product that has shown remarkable results in Iceberg lettuce cultivation.
HaifaStim™ Wall-Up is a concentrated formulation rich in silicon, delivered as ortho-silicic acid. This form provides outstanding plant availability, making the product particularly effective in improving plants' resistance to abiotic stresses and increasing their mechanical strength. Learn more |
This article explores the benefits of HaifaStim™ Wall-Up, as demonstrated in a recent trial conducted by Haifa Iberia.
Trial Overview
The trial* took place in Archivel, Murcia (Spain), to assess the effects of HaifaStim™ Wall-Up on Iceberg lettuce grown in open fields. Over six weeks, foliar applications of 0.5 liters per hectare were made weekly. The results were impressive.
Key Results
Improved Weight and Quality
A significant outcome of the treatment was the increase in the weight of the lettuce heads. The lettuce treated with HaifaStim™ Wall-Up weighed 480 grams—60 grams more than the control group. Importantly, this increase in weight was accompanied by quality improvements across several parameters.
Control: 420 g | HaifaStim™ Wall-Up: 480 g |
Reduced Tip-Burn
Tip-burn, often caused by calcium deficiency, is a common issue in lettuce cultivation. HaifaStim™ Wall-Up's ortho-silicic acid improves the plant’s ability to absorb calcium, reducing tip-burn and promoting healthier crops.
Greener Lettuce
The treated lettuce also displayed a greener appearance. This improvement is due to the presence of chelated copper (Cu-EDTA) in HaifaStim™ Wall-Up, which is critical for photosynthesis. In addition, the silicon content strengthens the leaves' structure, improving their exposure to sunlight and enhancing the overall green color.
The control plot | HaifaStim™ Wall-Up treatment |
Extended Shelf Life
Postharvest shelf life is crucial for both farmers and consumers. The trial revealed that lettuce treated with HaifaStim™ Wall-Up had an extended shelf life. This is attributed to silicon's ability to help retain water within the leaves by reducing evapotranspiration, particularly in high-temperature conditions.
Conclusion
The trial highlights the multiple benefits of incorporating HaifaStim™ Wall-Up into Iceberg lettuce cultivation. From increased head weight to reduced tip-burn, greener leaves, and longer shelf life, HaifaStim™ Wall-Up proves to be a valuable tool for farmers seeking to enhance both the quality and yield of their crops.
By integrating HaifaStim™ Wall-Up into their practices, farmers can achieve superior results while contributing to a more sustainable and productive agricultural future.
* The trial was conducted in collaboration with Alimer S.L