BioPhos

BioPhos

BioPhos is a reactive phosphate rock fertiliser with a microbial inoculant, a slow organic phosphorus and calcium source for compost, soil mixes and garden beds. It suits growers who want phosphorus that stays in the root zone and is released by soil life over the season.

At a glance

• Type: fertiliser (phosphorus and calcium)
• Organic input status: BioFert BioGro statement. See the details and dates.
• Analysis: N 0, P₂O₅ 12.5% (5.5% elemental P), K₂O 0; calcium 33%, sulphur 1%
• Use for: phosphorus and calcium in compost, media and soil grown crops
• Rate: 25 to 50 g per square metre, broadcast and incorporated

What it is

BioPhos is made by Pacific Biofert. The maker describes it as a phosphate rock inoculated with fungi and bacteria that help make the phosphorus plant available.

What it does

• Phosphorus drives energy transfer in the plant (ATP), early root growth, flowering and seed set.
• Phosphate binds to soil within millimetres of where it lands, so very little is lost to leaching. Mix it into the root zone rather than leaving it on the surface.
• Every dose brings calcium, about 33 g per 100 g, so count it when you are balancing calcium from lime or gypsum.
• Phosphate rock releases slowly. Soil acids and microbes do the work, so it is a soil builder rather than a quick fix.

Analysis

• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 12.5%
• Phosphorus (P, elemental) 5.5%
• Sulphur (S) 1.00%
• Calcium (Ca) 33.00%

How to use

• Compost: 1 to 2 kg, or 0.5 to 1 L, per cubic metre.
• Modified media: 1 to 5 kg, or 0.5 to 2.5 L, per cubic metre.
• Modified media: 50 to 250 g, or 25 to 125 mL, per 50 L.
• Soil grown crops, broadcast and incorporate: 25 to 50 g per square metre.
• Do not use BioPhos to chase calcium: every dose adds phosphorus. Use lime or gypsum for calcium on its own.

Learn more in fifteen seconds

• Phosphorus: what it does
• Phosphate stays where it lands
• Too much P turns mycorrhizae down

Handling and storage

• Wear a mask to avoid inhaling particles and open the bag in a well ventilated area.
• Wear gloves and eye protection, and wash hands after use.
• Once opened, keep sealed and dry.