We are Fertilizer Pioneers

We have a long history of both process and product innovation.

Science, technology, and data continue to give us insights to help you maximize nutrient use efficiency. In the 1980s, we pioneered a focus on feeding and managing soil biology, setting the stage for mainstream acceptance more than two decades later. Instead of selling soil microbes, we create conditions where they flourish, naturally.

Soil amendment innovations

We introduced Bio-Cal®, the first soil amendment to use multiple types of calcium, ensuring availability throughout the entire growing season.

This innovation, along with OrganiCal™ and HumaCal®, redefined calcium as a vital plant nutrient rather than just a soil corrector. We also led shifts in on-farm phosphate use by advocating for monoammonium phosphate (MAP) over diammonium phosphate (DAP) due to its lower pH. Lower pH enhances potassium and micronutrient availability and reduces free ammonia in the soil. Additionally, we were the first to recommend the sulfate form of potash, recognizing its superior plant availability, lower salt content, and extended effectiveness compared to potassium chloride. We understood that high levels of salt and beneficial soil life do not mix. These innovations have significantly influenced industry practices.

Pioneering comprehensive soil testing

In the 1990s, we pioneered comprehensive soil testing, developing methods that measure specific yield-limiting factors beyond just phosphorus, potassium, and pH.

We also created farm management algorithms, refined over decades of experience, that enable us to recommend tailored fertility, rotation, and management plans for individual fields. Our innovation in carbon-based dry fertilizers led to the development of granulated fertilizers that combine carbon sources with balanced plant nutrition, effectively feeding microbes at the point of entry. Wrapping up an incredible decade, we introduced MicroPack 5-5-5, the first complete, homogenized trace mineral product designed to address yield-limiting factors.

Building fertilizers around dry humates

In the 2000s, Midwestern BioAg became the first U.S. company to build fertilizers around dry humates (solid form of humic acid), enhancing nutrient delivery and water-holding capacity.

During this period, we also introduced WinterKing™ alfalfa seeds, specifically bred to thrive in the high-fertility soils we develop. This innovative approach, combining soil-focused genetics with our fertility practices, remains novel and is being extended to other crops.

Micronutrients to enhance soil efficiency and structure

We started the 2020s with the concept of TerraNu, which was built on the idea of a super fertilizer that contained carbon and all other necessary micronutrients to enhance soil efficiency and structure.

All TerraNu granules are uniquely homogenized, meaning that all ingredients are equally distributed for maximum results. It has seen great success across the country and has multiple formulations to elevate any soil type. TerraNu is 40 years of MBA’s expertise in one granule.

Water storage enhancement

Finally, our latest innovation, BIO-GEL, was introduced to the market in 2023. It functions as a water storage enhancer, nutrient stabilizer, and food for native bacteria in the root zone.

This revolutionary product stabilizes soil by binding soil particles together, improving soil structure and porosity, leading to improved nutrient uptake and biological activity. And because of this binding, it can also prevent nitrogen leaching, which is important for crop performance but also for the environment. BIO-GEL comes in a dry powder or liquid concentrate to be utilized for numerous applications (in-furrow, 2×2, fertigation, liquid apps, plant drench, etc) within the growing industry.

Midwestern BioAg has been at the forefront of biological farming since the 1980s, pioneering a path for better farming.

Our products and consulting expertise enable growers to understand their yield-limiting factors without relying on the latest chemical innovations or “bug in a jug” solutions. At MBA, we view your soil as a living, multifaceted organism. We understand the intricate symbiosis between soil life and minerals, enabling us to reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, improve soil structure, and decrease disease and nematode pressure.. By following the advice of an MBA consultant and committing to the plan, you will be amazed at the results.