Replacing Agrochemicals Through The Use of Wood Vinegar

Modern research on the use of wood vinegar was first carried out in Japan in the early 1950s. It was reported to be effective against microorganisms and insects that target plants. However, due to the introduction of agrochemicals and their instantaneous effects, research on wood vinegar took a back seat.

Agrochemicals are chemicals developed for use on plants and agriculture. Examples include pesticides, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. Interest in wood vinegar resurfaced when the efficacy and safety of agrochemicals started being questioned.

Having long been recognised as a very effective agent against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, wood vinegar attacks these microorganisms directly and propagates helpful microbes that feed on them.

It is estimated that wood vinegar contains more than 300 beneficial constituents, such as acetic acid, methanol, phenol, ester, acetals, ketone, and formic acid among many others. Wood vinegar is especially useful because it is able to solve a wide range of issues. Its endless list of constituents is generally equally active and work synergistically to effectively perform multiple roles.

Although it is neither a fertilizer nor an agrochemical, wood vinegar enhances rooting, helps in regulating nutrient conditions in the soil, and balances essential microbiological populations. Keeping microbiological populations in check not only reduces the tendency of soil-bound diseases, it also increases the vitality of roots and enables better uptake of nutrients.

Through foliar application of wood vinegar, leaves become shiny and darker in colour. This is due to an increase in chlorophyll as the ester in wood vinegar promotes photosynthesis. Healthier leaves also naturally have a stronger resistance against pests and diseases. Furthermore, ester helps in the formation of sugar and amino acids, which results in better tasting produce that is completely safe for consumption as the entire process is organic.

In the wake of rising concern regarding indirect consumption of harmful chemicals, using wood vinegar to support plant health and growth removes the risks associated with employing artificial chemicals. With its impressive range of natural capabilities, wood vinegar may even prove to have better and more effective results.

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