Survey Reveals How Biologicals Impact Specialty Crops
February 12, 2025 Specialty crop growers across the nation are speaking, and the agricultural biologicals sector is listening. In the first study of its kind to directly measure specialty crop grower perceptions regarding the use and value of biologicals, Stratovation Group has unlocked critical insights about the rapidly growing sector. Insights include grower trends regarding production practices for fruits, vegetables and nuts and plans for biological input use. The results offer a roadmap for future innovation and adoption.
“This research is about listening to the people who matter most—farmers and growers,” Stratovation Group Founder and CEO Cam Camfield says. “Their insights and experiences are essential to shaping the future of biologicals. The knowledge they’ve shared with us helps pave the way for growth and success in the specialty crops sector.”
Camfield will discuss this research at the General Session of the 10th annual BioSolutions Conference and Expo in Fresno, Calif. He will give attendees a snapshot of how farmers are perceiving and adopting biologicals right now. Conducted by Stratovation Group with Meister Media Worldwide, the study reveals what’s driving decisions, the barriers farmers are facing, and the real-world impacts of these products. What’s influencing adoption and what’s holding some growers back?
Conducted in partnership with Western Growers, the Agricultural Retailers Association, The Fertilizer Institute, and D.C. Legislative and Regulatory Services, the survey garnered responses from 257 specialty crop growers nationwide. Results offer a comprehensive look at the state of biologicals—a rapidly evolving category of agricultural inputs that includes biopesticides, biostimulants, and biofertilizers.
According to the findings, 65% of respondents currently use biologicals, with most seeking improved crop quality (70%), increased yield (62%), and better pest control (55%). Liquid formulations applied via sprayers were preferred by 80% of users, highlighting practical preferences among growers.
“Farmers are clear about what they value,” Camfield noted. “Crop quality and yield were top of mind as were product effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. Growers want to see consistent results that justify their investment. These insights are vital for manufacturers and advisors alike.”
Despite the growing interest, barriers remain. Many non-users cited cost and uncertainty about efficacy as reasons for avoiding biologicals. However, the survey revealed that trusted recommendations could change this dynamic—54% of non-users said they would consider trying biologicals if advised by a trusted peer or advisor.
When it comes to making agronomic decisions, farmers consistently turn to trusted sources. University Extension programs (63%) and fellow farmers (62%) topped the list of influencers, while most respondents indicated high trust in their agronomists or certified crop advisors (66%).
“This research underscores the importance of trusted relationships in agriculture,” Camfield emphasized. “Farmers aren’t just looking for products; they’re looking for partners who can help them succeed. Those relationships are critical for driving adoption and advancing this sector.”