Biostimulant applications in low-input cultivation systems to enhance nutrition efficiency of crops

Abstract In modern agriculture, obtaining sustainable techniques to promote plant growth and enhance crop productivity is crucial. In low-input agriculture, as explicitly practiced in the less developed regions of the world, environmental-friendlier practices are limited, and the depletion of natural resources are generally on the increase. The application of biostimulants can contribute to plant yield and nutrient uptake, while reducing chemical fertilizer dependency. Comprehensive studies have documented improved nutrient acquisition and distribution within plants in response to biostimulant application. In this chapter, environmental-friendly techniques for low-input agricultural systems are reviewed, emphasizing the implementation of different biostimulants derived from agricultural by-products for improved crop growth and enhancing nutrition efficiency. The increase in the global market for biostimulants coupled with the global nutrient imbalance necessitates biostimulant development for targeted markets, paving the path to waste recycling and reduction, and creating benefits for growers through production and supply of healthier fresh produce, food industry, and distribution companies.