Manufacturers of biostimulants derived from ­seaweed, or algae, say the products can provide multiple benefits when applied to crops. Purported benefits include better root growth, resistance to weather-related stress, increased plant vigor, and better uptake of micronutrients. Some products are said to improve flower bud formation or fruit set, leading to better quality fruit and higher yields, while others are said to stimulate cell division, thus improving fruit size. However, Austrian researcher Dr. Thomas Rühmer, who began a multiyear trial with Golden Delicious apples in 2010 to investigate the effects of algae-based products on production levels, fruit size, and russeting, […]