5 FAQs on Post-Harvest Biologicals Answered by an Agronomist
Posted by Jessica Link, Agronomist on August 14, 2025
After harvest, the soil is still alive with biological activity. The right management can put that activity to work for you.
Post-Harvest biological products contain beneficial microbes to break down crop residue, recycle valuable nutrients, and improve soil structure before the next planting season. Applying these biologicals in the fall gives microbes the most time to establish and start processing residue while conditions are favorable.
The following FAQs answer some of the most common questions about how post-harvest biologicals work, how they benefit your soil, and what to look for in a quality product.
1. What are biologicals, and why are they applied after harvest?
Agriculture biologicals are products that use the effects of living microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, or enzymes, to improve soil health, enhance nutrient availability, and even protect crops from pests or diseases.
When applied after harvest, biologicals:
- Break down crop residue – certain microbes specialize in decomposing cellulose and lignin in stalks, leaves, and root structures. This helps release usable nutrients back to the soil to be used by the next crop.
- Help recycle nutrients – when residue decomposes, nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that were locked up before now become available to the crop.
- Improve overall soil structure – Microbial activity in the soil increases aggregation and organic matter, both of which support better water filtration and root growth.
- Give the soil a head start for spring – by applying micronutrients in the fall, microbes have time to establish in the soil and begin working well in advance of the next planting season.
2. How do post-harvest biologics improve soil health and nutrient cycling?
Post-harvest biologicals help jump-start the processes that turn crop residue into plant-available macro and micronutrients, which help build better soil structure.
Some key areas of improvement:
- Accelerating residue decomposition by breaking down any leftover cellulose, lignin, or other plant organic matter
- Releasing tied-up nutrients as organic matter decomposes
- Boosting microbial diversity with added microbes that are specifically selected in products to support a balanced soil microbiome
- Supporting long-term crop fertility with continuous nutrient cycling that reduces the need for some other crop inputs
This biological head start in the fall means that by spring, soils are more active, better structured, and ready to support strong early growth.
3. Which type of crops or residues can benefit most from fall-applied biologicals?
Post-harvest biologicals work with nearly any crop residue. They are especially effective in cases where heavy, fibrous materials, like corn stalks, are left in the field.
Corn, sorghum, and high-residue no-till systems benefit the most from these applications. Stalks and residue high in lignin and cellulose benefit from microbes, breaking down residue faster, releasing more nutrients to the soil, as well as helping to reduce wear and tear on planters in the spring.
Small grains, soybeans, pulses and specialty crops also benefit from biologicals. While residues from these crops are typically lighter, biologicals can still speed up breakdown and recycle nutrients.
4. What are some best practices for the successful application of biologicals post-harvest?
For the best results, focus on timing, coverage, and conditions for applications. Some top tips from experts include:
- Apply before soil temperatures drop below 50 degrees F.
- Ensure good contact with the residue while making applications.
- Pair with a carbon source, specifically sugars, to ensure an energy source for the microorganisms.
5. What should I look for in a fall-applied biological product?
Biologicals are generally safe and overall environmentally friendly. Choosing the right post-harvest residue management solution ensures consistent results in residue breakdown and soil health.
When choosing a fall-applied biological product, look for:
- A high population of viable counts (CFUs), leading to faster, more complete residue breakdown
- Long shelf life and stability of the product
- A quality source of added food source for the microorganisms
- Proven field trial results
Pair with a Carbon Source
A well-formulated biological, paired with a carbon source, can turn tough residue into available nutrients faster, helping prepare your soil for the next growing season. Our team suggests pairing our Bio Reverse® with Sweet ‘n Eezy® for best results in the field.
If you have more questions about the use of these products, please contact a trusted representative at The Andersons.
Jessica Link is an agronomist for The Andersons. Jessica is an Ohio native and grew up heavily involved in the agriculture industry through both 4-H and FFA. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in Agronomy, Jessica has a strong understanding of crop growth and development. If you have any questions, Jessica can be reached at Jessica_link@andersonsinc.com.
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