October 26, 2026
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Drought and salinity can disrupt crop establishment across the diverse growing conditions of the EMEA region. Conventional seed treatments primarily protect against biotic threats, but seed-applied technologies can also help crops respond to abiotic stress during the critical early stages of development.
VitalSeed was developed to help arable row crops establish more successfully. This Ascophyllum nodosum-based seed treatment biostimulant is specifically formulated to support seedling emergence, uniformity and crop establishment.
VitalSeed is designed to integrate with existing seed treatment programmes and support crop establishment under abiotic stress. Research in maize and soybean indicates that treated plants respond earlier and more effectively to drought stress. Seed-safety studies and controlled bioassays also demonstrate improved root and shoot development under challenging growing conditions.
Independent trials in Italy provide further evidence of benefits for crop emergence, biomass and yield. Together with 24-month formulation stability and dust-off results below the relevant ESTA limits, these findings support the suitability of VitalSeed for seed treatment programmes.
Key takeaways
Under salinity stress, controlled studies recorded greater root development, including an 18% increase in root length in wheat and a 21% increase in corn.
Under drought stress, studies in corn recorded a 20-33% increase in root length and a 38% increase in fine roots.
Under drought stress, treated maize and soybean showed changes in the expression of genes associated with metabolism, energy production, photosynthesis and tolerance to abiotic stress.
- Under non-stressed conditions, VitalSeed also increased shoot growth. This finding suggests that treated seeds may have greater resource availability to support shoot development, potentially through improved uptake or photosynthesis.
As growing conditions become more variable across EMEA, seed treatment technologies that help crops manage abiotic stress can support stronger establishment and more resilient crop production. The findings outlined above show how VitalSeed can contribute during the critical early stages of crop development.
For more than 40 years, we have advanced research and development focused on Ascophyllum nodosum, a seaweed species valued for its distinctive benefits in agriculture. Building on this expertise, VitalSeed is formulated for use alongside crop protection, biological and nutritional seed treatments.
Ready to strengthen your seed treatment offer? Talk to our EMEA team about your crop, market and formulation priorities, and explore how our portfolio could support your business.