January 2026 Updates
Hello from Ketchikan, Alaska! We have some great updates from Pacific Kelp Company to share with you this month, but first, make sure you're signed up for our emails by clicking here!
Update on Our Wine Grape Research with Washington State University
We're pleased to share some initial data from our work with Dr. Bhaskar Bondada of Washington State University in partnership with commercial vineyards in Napa, California. Together, we're researching how our KelpEdge™ liquid kelp extract can benefit grapevine health, yields, and fruit quality.
In this trial on Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, we saw higher sugars (glucose + fructose) in the grapes that received foliar treatments of KelpEdge™ compared to the untreated control grapes. Increased sugar content can lead to enhanced flavors in wine and can also be a sign of a healthier vine, as higher sugar levels can result from stronger photosynthesis and healthier leaf function.
While the initial results are modest, we are happy to see that key quality indicators are moving in the right direction after applications of KelpEdge™.
“Kelp extracts, rich in natural bioactive substances, are gaining attention in agriculture for their potential to enhance plant health. Ongoing experiments aim to explore their effects on grape quality further. Preliminary findings indicate that these extracts can increase sugar levels, and there is potential for improvements in color and nutrient levels as well.”
— Dr. Bhaskar Bondada
Stay tuned for more updates on our work with Dr. Bondada and his team at Washington State University.
Sales Update: We've Partnered with No Stress Distribution
We're excited to announce that we've partnered with No Stress Distribution to bring KelpEdge™ to their online marketplace and to home and garden supply stores across the US.
With sizes of KelpEdge™ now available from 1 quart up to 5 gallons, this partnership is perfect for home gardeners, houseplant lovers, and even commercial growers—and just in time for spring.
For those of you who want faster-growing houseplants, more resilient gardens, healthier soil, or even just more blooms on your flower bushes, check out the No Stress Distribution site or keep an eye out for KelpEdge™ next time you're in a home and garden store!