Yara Unveils Microbial Products to Shield Crops from Climate Extremes

Yara, a leading Norwegian agribusiness, is stepping up its work in biological farming solutions. The company has developed two new microbial products designed to help crops withstand drought, heat, and heavy rain. Recent field trials show promising results in protecting yields under tough conditions.

The first product, YaraVita BioStim, is a microbial-based biostimulant containing beneficial bacteria and fungi, such as Bacillus and Trichoderma species. Tests across Europe and North America between 2023 and 2025 revealed it boosted root growth and resilience to drought and heat. Under water-limited conditions, crops treated with BioStim retained up to 25% more yield.

A second innovation, Yara Myra NutriShield, is a foliar spray enriched with drought-tolerant microbes. Trials in Australia and Brazil from 2024 to 2026 focused on crops like corn and soybeans. The spray improved water retention by 15–20% and reduced damage from extreme heat and heavy rain-induced lodging.

To support this research, Yara's YARD division has opened five new laboratories at the Institute for Plant Nutrition and Environmental Research in Dülmen, Germany. Scientists there are now investigating how biologicals, micronutrients, and biostimulants can further enhance crop resilience. These biological solutions, derived from organic or mineral sources, work alongside traditional fertilisers but demand specialised expertise to develop.

Yara's latest products aim to provide farmers with tools to combat climate-related challenges. Field trials confirm their effectiveness in protecting yields under stress. The expansion of research facilities signals the company's growing focus on sustainable agricultural innovations.