Why Stem Diameter Matters

One of the leading benefits of BW BioBoost is the product’s ability to help crops increase overall stem diameter. But why does stem size matter? 

Stem size is important to crops for a variety of reasons. Stem size directly affects a plant's ability to support itself, transport water and nutrients, and withstand environmental stresses. Let’s break it down: 

Structural Support

Larger stem size promotes upright growth, flexibility and strength, proper distribution of weight, support for branches, and the connection to a well-developed root system. The larger the stem, the more surface area the plant has to produce leaves and pods. Think of a plant's stem as a support beam in a building. A firm foundation is the basis for the success of the entire rest of the “system.”  A larger stem provides more strength and stability, which helps the plant withstand challenges like strong winds, heavy rains, drought, and more. 

Water and Nutrient Transport 

A thicker stem can store more water and nutrients, acting as reservoirs during periods of drought. This capability is critical in regions where rainfall can be inconsistent. A bigger stem has more room for vascular tissue. A more robust stem with a well-developed vascular system efficiently transports water and other key nutrients from the roots to the leaves, ultimately maximizing photosynthesis and overall growth. A well-hydrated plant is also more resilient to stress, enabling it to withstand adverse conditions and maintain growth.

Explicitly speaking, BioBoost significantly increases the early uptake of iron, manganese and boron. Iron is essential for chlorophyll production. Boron builds cell wall strength, aids the plant with calcium uptake, and opens the “trap door” for root exudation. 

Stress Tolerance 

The overall physiological improvement of a larger stem promotes an elevated resiliency to abiotic and biotic stress all season long. Plants with larger, healthier stems tend to be more vigorous overall. This vigor can also enhance the plant's natural defenses against pests and diseases, reducing the likelihood of infestations and infections. 

Larger stems can also store more energy, allowing the plant to recover faster from stress. With the increased early uptake of major nutrients, manganese regulates potassium uptake and increases cytokinin and enzyme production to combat oxidative stress. 

All these things work toward the same end goal – promoting a higher, more successful crop yield. The unique combination of synergistic microbes and food sources in BioBoost increases seed energy, resulting in enhanced rooting, enlarged stem diameter and vascular system. This improves early essential key nutrient uptake and translocation throughout the plant while boosting photosynthesis. Stem size is a critical factor in the health and productivity of all plants, especially corn and soybean crops.