Delivery of maximal corn yield is highly dependent on the crop building healthy, vigorous roots. The more robust the root system, the more effectively it can mine water and nutrients, be resilient in periods of stress, and effectively anchor the plant in the ground. Enter Soltellus, our biodegradable polymer that helps do just that, while simultaneously stimulating the soil microbiome, improving soil health, and enhancing water quality.
Soltellus works primarily in the root zone, helping young plants establish faster and put down a denser network of roots and root hairs. This means more root surface area for uptake of all thirteen essential crop nutrients (not just N, P & K but Ca, Mg, S and all essential micronutrients) throughout the season. Through its unique chelation abilities, it helps hold fertilizer nutrients and free up soil-held nutrients, making them more readily plant-available in the root zone and less subject to loss.
Finally, because the Soltellus polymer is totally biodegradable, it does its job and breaks down, leaving no residues.
A trial initiated in Linn County, Iowa in 2026 is showing interesting visual results. Working through our regional agronomy partner 2K Ag LLC, a brother-led farming operation agreed to put Soltellus to the test, adding it to and comparing it against their standard practice program in a side-by-side evaluation.
The Soltellus program is straightforward: one quart applied in-furrow at planting with a planned second quart to follow during the exponential growth phase and applied via Y-Drop applicator.
So far, with only the former application made, early differences in root growth and development are readily apparent. When plants were pulled from each treatment noticeably more root hairs and greater root mass were readily visible on the Soltellus-treated plants. With this stronger foundation established underground, the crop is better prepared for the various weather challenges of late summer and set up for a great harvest when the combine rolls.
Photos provided by partner 2K Ag LLC
Both the partner and the farmers involved came away impressed. It’s the kind of result we all like to see, and not just a claim on a slide. As the second Y-Drop pass goes out and the season progresses, we’ll be watching closely to gauge how that early root advantage carries through to the finish line.
Curious how Soltellus could fit into your program? Download our Agronomy Guide to dig into the science behind the polymer, application timings and other best management practices, agronomic benefits, etc. And feel free to reach out to your Soltellus partner or Dober and their field representatives to discuss a trial on your own ground. Seeing is believing!