Biostimulants
Plant Elicitors
Plant elicitors are biologically active substances that are recognized by plants as signaling molecules. They activate natural defense and stress-response mechanisms without causing direct damage to the plant. Within biostimulants, plant elicitors are used to prepare plants for future stress and disease pressure.
What are plant elicitors?
Plant elicitors are compounds of biological or natural origin that activate specific signaling pathways in plants. These pathways are normally involved in defense against pathogens and adaptation to stressful conditions.
- Function as signaling molecules
- Activate defense and stress-response pathways
- Work without direct toxicity
- Effective at low concentrations
Mechanism of action
After recognition by receptors on the cell surface, the plant initiates a cascade of biochemical reactions. This leads to the activation of protective mechanisms, a process known as induced resistance.
Plant Elicitors and Plant Priming
An important effect of plant elicitors is plant priming: the plant is brought into a heightened state of readiness. This allows it to respond faster and more effectively when actual stress occurs.
Effects under biotic stress
When attacked by fungi, bacteria or insects, plant elicitors strengthen defense responses such as cell wall reinforcement and the production of defense compounds.
Effects under abiotic stress
In addition to biotic stress, plant elicitors can also contribute to better regulation of physiological processes under abiotic stress, such as drought and temperature stress.
Influence on plant physiology
By activating signaling pathways, plant elicitors influence various physiological processes, including antioxidant activity, metabolic regulation and stress-related gene expression.
Plant elicitors in biostimulant formulations
Within biostimulants, plant elicitors are used to increase resilience without inhibiting growth. They are often combined with other functional raw materials.
- Support of natural defense
- Increased stress tolerance
- Suitable for preventive applications
- Usable in various cultivation systems
Effect on plant performance
Correctly applied plant elicitors contribute to:
- Increased plant resilience
- Faster stress response
- Better stress adaptation
- Maintenance of plant vitality
Overview: role of plant elicitors
| Aspect | Contribution of plant elicitors |
|---|---|
| Signaling effect | Activation of defense and stress-response pathways |
| Plant priming | Preparation for future stress |
| Biotic stress | Strengthened defense responses |
| Abiotic stress | Better physiological regulation |
| Formulation | Resilience-oriented biostimulant raw material |