Trevor Charles, a microbiologist at the University of Waterloo, has helped three companies develop microbe solutions that boost yields and counter diseases and pests.
The technology involves a combination of DNA analysis of soils and water and then development of a blend of microbes that will complement what has been found.
One example is blends for hydroponic greenhouse operations which typically use ultraviolet light to sterilize growth mediums after a crop is harvested so the new crop can start out cleared of bacterial diseases and pests. The problem is that the sterile medium can also be a welcome place for invading harmful bacteria and pests.
Healthy Hydroponics will provide a microbial cocktail that is healthy for nurturing the next crop.
Earth Microbial has become popular with golf courses. It takes soil samples to determine the microbial cocktail that will work best for each client.
Metagenom Bio Life Science provides support services, such as DNA analyses. One of its services is testing waste water to identify pathogens, including COVID-19.
Charles is the scientist behind these companies that operate out of shared space in Waterloo.
Charles said he thought clients would come as they learned about the technology and its benefits, but now realizes that business plans are necessary to grow the business.
Consultants at MarketsandMarkets estimate the market will be $4.3 billion a year by 2028. That’s based on a growth rate of 22 per cent per year between now and then.
Vertical farming is a prime market.
