Field and laboratory experiments were carried out in 2012–2013, aimed at evaluating the influence of new products stimulating plant growth based on amino acids on crop yield, characteristics of grain and content of macro- and micronutrients in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The tests included two formulations produced in cooperation with INTERMAG Co. (Olkusz, Poland)—AminoPrim and AminoHort, containing 15% and 20% amino acids, respectively, and 0.27% and 2.1% microelements, respectively. Field experiments showed that the application of products based on amino acids influenced the increase of grain yield of winter wheat (5.4% and 11%, respectively, for the application of AminoPrim at a dose 1.0 L/ha and AminoHort at dose 1.25 L/ha) when compared to the control group without biostimulant. Laboratory tests showed an increase of technological characteristics of grain such as ash content, Zeleny sedimentation index and content of protein. The use of the tested preparations at different doses also contributed to the increase of the nutrients content in grains, in particular copper (ranging 31–50%), as well as sodium (35–43%), calcium (4.3–7.9%) and molybdenum (3.9–16%). Biostimulants based on amino acids, tested in the present study, can be recommended for an efficient agricultural production.

We assessed the effectiveness use of the new NKSMg fertilizer on the germination of rapeseed (Brassica napus L. var. napus). The fertilizer was produced on the basis of protein hydrolysate from processing of poultry feathers. The whole process is based on the digestion of feather waste by acidic hydrolysis, adjusting pH of the reaction medium, and then enriched in select nutrients. The method allows the production of liquid fertilizers that can be used in soil and foliar applications. Pot experiments have shown that the use of NKSMg fertilizer based on protein hydrolysate of keratin had a significant effect on the increase of plant biomass. The contents of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium in plants increased by 76.2, 5.20, 37.3, and 29.6%, respectively, compared to unfertilized plants. The use of fertilizer also significantly modified the contents of manganese and zinc in tested plants. Technology of production of fertilizers based on protein hydrolysate is currently implemented by Intermag Co., Polish leader in the manufacture of fertilizers, growth stimulators, and other preparations designed for professional agriculture and horticulture.

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