XiteBio Technologies has announced that XiteBio Tuber+ has been registered with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). XiteBio Tuber+ is the first commercial phosphorus (P) solubilizing bacterial inoculant developed exclusively for tuber crops such as potatoes.

Powered by the globally patented bacteria Bacillus firmus, XiteBio® Tuber+ can be administered in-furrow during planting or early post-emergence and is compatible with routinely used liquid fertilizers and herbicides.

“High fertilizer prices and tight supply in 2022 show producers must increase their fertilizer use efficiency. XiteBio Tuber+ can do exactly that; by enhancing the availability of P fertilizers so that the cost of production per unit decreases for the producers. This is very evident for high-value crops like potatoes & sugar beets. This technology can help growers produce more potatoes on the same number of acres while increasing profitability. This technology also can increase the value of tuber crops by increasing sugar content in sugar beets,” Dr. Manas Banerjee, CEO of XiteBio, said.

This distinct bacterial strain colonizes plant roots robustly and solubilizes soil-bound P for improved plant uptake. With simple application methods and enhanced compatibility with starting fertilizers and herbicides, this might quickly become the preferred alternative for potato and sugar beet growers. This type of technology truly blends sustainability and increased profitability.