Jan 7, 2026New seaweed-derived biostimulant aims to improve plant health, vigor
JH Biotech’s new seaweed-derived biostimulant is designed to fit into existing fertility programs to support plant health and crop performance.
Kelp Star, derived from Ascophyllum nodosum, a large, common cold-water seaweed, is specifically aimed at boosting potato performance, according to a news release.
“Growers don’t need another product that sounds good on paper,” Peter Feng, JH Biotech plant division manager, said in the release. “KELP STAR is launching with real internal results behind it, especially on potatoes, and it’s built to be easy to use in the field.”
An internal potato evaluation combined KELP STAR foliar applications at six pounds per acre via center pivot with standard fertilization practices. According to the company, eight applications across the growing season produced measured increases in:
- Yield per plant: 58.7%
- Fresh tuber weight: 36.3%
- Leaf area: 38.5%
- Photosynthetic activity: 19.8%
- Plant height: 17.7%
- Leaflets: 20.8%
- Leaf number: 18.9%
Kelp Star also supports stronger canopy development and improves stress tolerance, according to JH Biotech.
The product is available in a soluble flake form for fast dilution and application. It can be used in drip irrigation, foliar spray and hydroponic systems and is compatible with many organic, conventional and microbial fertilizer programs.
