NATURALLY occurring compound that has boosted crop root systems, improved plant health and raised yields in the USA could soon be on offer to UK growers.

Formononetin stimulates the naturally occurring beneficial soil fungi that live with plant roots, claims supplier Plant Health Care.

When used as a seed treatment it has led to yield increases of up to 25% in grain maize and 42% in soybean, it says.

PHC has started a European trials programme with a view to targeting the European crop market.