Aaron Kelly, Chief Commercial Officer of New Leaf Symbiotics, introduced the company to intern Karleigh Erramouspe by highlighting their specialization in a specific type of bacteria called PPFMs. “They’re all pink. That’s why you see all of the pink branding around us,” he explained. He emphasized that these bacteria provide season-long protection for plants, colonizing them at planting and continuing to protect them throughout the season. Kelly positioned New Leaf as a company focused on delivering consistent biological solutions to growers.
When asked about converting skeptical users into loyal customers, Kelly acknowledged the challenges in the biologicals industry: “There are definitely growers that have not had the best experiences, and so a lot of times we’ve got to communicate and talk them through that process.” He underscored that New Leaf differentiates itself as a “science driven and data backed organization,” with over a decade of field trials supporting the efficacy of their products. He mentioned that they can provide “four or five years of greater than 10 acre yield data” to growers considering their solutions.
Kelly discussed New Leaf’s commercialization strategy, stressing the importance of providing consistent bio protection against both fungal and insect pressures. He highlighted that their products, including the bioinsecticide TS-201 and biofungicide TS-601, “are providing the season-long protection,” even when diseases appear months after planting. By using induced systemic resistance, these products prime plants’ immune systems, helping them better defend against pests and diseases and supporting integrated pest management practices.
Looking toward the future, Kelly shared excitement about expanding product applications. He noted that TS-201, originally launched for corn rootworm, is now being evaluated for other pests like stink bugs in soybeans. He also discussed the upcoming launch of the biofungicide TS-601 and ongoing trials to validate its effectiveness. Kelly encouraged growers to explore the company’s online resources, mentioning their field trial videos and interviews: “We did this pink performance tour this year, so that everybody could start to see a firsthand experience of what we’re seeing in the field this year.”
