Fewer fertilisers

A four-leafed clover is supposed to bring you luck. But scientists want to use clover's genes to improve farmers' fortunes and reduce fertiliser use.

Researchers have worked out that clover produces a natural fertiliser by trapping bacteria in its roots. They now hope to transfer clover genes into rice, creating a variety that produces fertiliser of its own.

Nitrogen fertilisers increase crop yields. But if rice contained a home-made fertiliser, it would save farmers money – and protect the environment from over-used chemicals.

Find out more about reducing fertiliser use with GM

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