North Pacific Organics Comparison Testing
NPO's commitment to customer sovereignty is backed by sound science. Instead of making ambiguous claims and using pseudo-science marketing tactics, we provide proof of product efficacy and consistency through ELAP (Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program) Certified analysis and product trials in commercial production systems and academic universities. NPO has retained the services of Full Circle Ag, Inc.--an independent R&D company--to test existing products and screen potential products in commercial crop production systems. Below are just a few examples of product trials recently completed or currently ongoing. All trials follow strict scientific methods and statistical analysis suitable for publication in scientific refereed journals (complete studies/data are available upon request). iphone applicaties maken
Objective: Comparative growth response trial in common annuals grown during winter months using typical potting soil nutrient (Nitroform starter charge) compared to NPO's 9-3-7 in Pansies, Primulas and Ranunculus;
Location: Smith Gardens, Aurora, OR
Product tested: NPO's 9-3-7;
Background: The Smith family of plant materials can be found under the Northwest Grown label in most large chain garden centers. Problems associated with winter grown plants include diminished growth resulting in slower nutrient uptake activity. In addition, plants need to be uniform yet controlled in size to satisfy customer specifications while also avoiding damage during shipping and handling. NPO's 9-3-7 is a natural slow-release fertilizer that can supply nutrient needs while avoiding over fertilization resulting in excessive growth or phytotoxicity. As shown in the photo, NPO's product resulted in a uniform yet controlled growth habit compared to the synthetic counterpart.
Results: Pictures
fernsehprogramm heute
Objective: Comparative growth response trial in vineyard using traditional soil nutrient compared to NPO's 9-3-7 in old and new vine blocks (see photos);
Location: Eola Hills Winery, Rickreall, OR
Product tested: NPO's 9-3-7;
Background: Situated in a natural weather shadow of the Coast Range west of Salem, Oregon, the Eola Hills vineyards are prized for their Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot and other varieties. Eola's winemaker requires fruit that hold superior yet consistent qualities. The nutrient content of the vines and subsequent fruit play a key role in this objective. Established vineyards typically require little soil-applied nutrients and avoid too much nitrogen as this could result in excessive canopy, which requires extra labor/management and may diminish the fruit qualities. Eola is therefore interested in the natural slow release characteristics of NPO's 9-3-7 to fulfill these controlled nutrient requirements. This is a newly established trial. Please check back to this site periodically to monitor the results as they are gathered during the next 18 months.
Results: Pictures
Objective: Comparative growth response trial in turf using various turf grade fertilizers compared to NPO's 9-3-7 (see photos);
Location: Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
Product tested: NPO's 9-3-7;
Background: We are interested in the natural slow release characteristics of NPO's 9-3-7 to fulfill turf nutrient requirements compared with other commercial products. Most synthetic fertilizers and organic amendments derived from fish and/or animal manures provide adequate results immediately after application. However, it has been reported by many in academia and the turf profession that many fertilizers fail to provide the long-term nutrients necessary to maintain the lush, healthy, color required throughout the season. This trial will provide the necessary showcase of superior product performance for those involved in greens keeping and landscape maintenance. This is a newly established trial. Please check back to this site periodically to monitor the results as they are gathered during the next 18 months.
Results: Pictures
Objective: Comparative growth response trial in containerized ornamentals using APC product compared to various organic and synthetic fertilizers (see photos);
Location: Fisher Farms, Gaston, OR
Product tested: APC Alaskan Humus product;
Background: We are interested in the high biological activity characteristics of APC Export's soil amendment products for ornamental nutrient requirements compared with other commercial fertility products. APC products are reported to contain high levels of biological activity (Dr. Elaine Ingham, OSU/Soil Foodweb) and humic materials that should result in excellent plant growth qualities and natural pest suppression while eliminating synthetic nutrient inputs. This trial has been established to provide proof of efficacy and to showcase this product to the nursery industry, Oregon's largest agricultural commodity.
Results: Pictures
Objective: Re-vitalize and improve old pear block soil and subsequent yields; increase fruit grade/quality in 5-7 year old blocks (see photos);
Location: Apeasay Fabulous Fruit, Inc, Hood River, OR
Product tested: NPO's 9-3-7, gypsum, Volcanophos, others;
Background: Apeasay, producers of organically grown fruit in Hood River, Oregon, approached NPO with a specific goal in mind: Avoid removal of an old block of pear trees by cultural and soil improvement methods. Working closely with Apeasay, we will perform a multi-task project involving re-vitalization of an old pear orchard neglected by 60 plus years of harsh production practices. Half of the acreage involved has been converted to vineyards. However, we feel that the use of organic soil amendments and fertilizers combined with cultural practices should provide the necessary cure to bring an old, decrepit orchard back into good production levels. Please check back to this site periodically to see how we plan to complete our tasks and monitor the results as they are gathered during the coming months.
Results: Pictures
|