DLF said they developed the enhancement as a solution for turf and forage applications with a focus on environmental sustainability.
DLF developed a new seed enhancement called 4Most internally to maintain control over research, product development, and ongoing efficacy testing. They tested every component to ensure high-quality ingredients in optimal ratios. A DLF news release said the formula includes slow-release nitrogen and various beneficial microorganisms specific to turf and forage, aimed at boosting seedlings’ nutrition. It also features a biodegradable, starch-based super absorbent to maintain moisture around the seed, and a calcium carbonate layer to improve soil contact and moisture retention.
The seed enhancement supports seedlings in developing deeper and more extensive root systems, enhancing plant stability and durability. DLF said it helps plants access water and nutrients more efficiently and converts soil-bound nutrients into plant-available forms.
“Each stage in the plant’s development has a corresponding component within the formulation, so each area of the plant’s establishment is covered,” DLF director of seed enhancements Susanna Sieke said in the release. “The active ingredients and targeted nutrition should empower seedlings to emerge and establish faster, resulting in more seedlings surviving and converting to healthy, mature plants.”
DLF said the formulation aims to outperform raw seed and may reduce the need for additional starter fertilizer or adjustments in seeding rates, seeking better vertical growth and coverage with fewer seeds.
“Enhanced seed contains less seed than a bag of raw seed, but based on our research trials, outperforms raw seed because more seeds can survive and thrive,” DLF director of product management Leah Brilman said. “We are focused on increasing the performance, vigor and value of each seed.”
The seed enhancement is manufactured at DLF’s U.S. headquarters in Albany, Oregon, in a new 141,000 square foot production facility with state-of-the-art technology for seed blending, enhancement, packaging, and palletizing.
“The new seed enhancement line uses proprietary technology developed by DLF that is intended to make 4Most look and function vastly different than what is available on the market today,” DLF North America senior vice president Brian Jaasko said.
DLF will initially introduce the technology to U.S. wholesale turf customers and has already shipped its first batch of the enhanced seed to a professional turf customer. The company plans to expand to all turf and forage markets in the United States and Canada in the future.
