UPLB develops chemical-free plant growth stimulant

Researchers from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) have developed an innovative root growth enhancer which can speed up seed germination, induce rooting, shoot growth and flowering in plantation crops, high value ornamentals, fruit trees and vegetables.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Science and Technology said UPLB researchers established MakilingTek, a spin-off company that caters to the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of HormoGroe.

It said HormoGroe is made up of naturally occurring microorganisms that are nano-encapsulated to increase its utilization rate and reduce the impact of environmental risks.

Dr. Lilia Fernando, the project leader, said this nano-formulated plant growth regulator is cost-effective and environment-friendly.

“Unlike other products available in the market, HormoGroe is not synthetic. It is naturally produced by bacteria and is nano-formulated,” Fernando said.

Dr. Enrico Paringit, Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development executive director, meanwhile, expressed optimism that HormoGroe would increase production of good quality crops.

“As leader and partner of innovation, DOST-PCIEERD remains committed in delivering excellence to Filipino people through technologies that foster vibrant production, food safety while ensuring care for the environment,” he said.

“Making HormoGroe available and accessible to Filipino growers will enable them to contribute to food production in a sustainable manner,” he added.

Moreover, DOST said HormoGroe yielded a positive result after being tested in coffee, cassava, banana, vegetables and some ornamental plants such as gumamela and bougainvillea.

UPLB researchers said the plant growth stimulant will become commercially available by 2021 and will be initially introduced and sold to farmer cooperatives and plantations as well as retail stores.

DOST said HormoGroe was made possible through the Funding Assistance for Spin-Off and Translation of Research for Advancing Commercialization Program of the DOST-PCIEERD. -Ma. Angelica Garcia/MDM, GMA News