Background
A spinach crop experienced early-season stress due to wind damage, severely slowing canopy development and suppressing leaf growth. Stressed crops often struggle to recover quickly, leaving yield potential unrealised and increasing the risk of pest and disease pressure.
To support recovery and re-activate plant physiological processes, a foliar application of Plant-Stim® was applied at 5 L/ha.
Plant-Stim is a natural plant growth promoter formulated with plant extracts, beneficial fermentation derivatives, Effective Microorganisms (EM), fulvic acid, phenolic compounds, and natural acids. It’s designed to increase cell division, boost photosynthesis, improve nutrient uptake and enhance leaf permeability, helping stressed crops return to vigorous growth.
Location
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Coordinates: 43°20'09.8"S, 172°24'22.5"E
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Region: North Canterbury, New Zealand
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Production system: Mixed Cropping farm
Objective
Evaluate the effectiveness of Plant-Stim in accelerating recovery and restoring growth after stress in a spinach crop.
Application Details
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Product: Plant-Stim®
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Rate: 5 L/ha foliar spray
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Timing: Applied once immediately after significant damage
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Target: Recover leaf growth, improve canopy density, and reduce visible leaf damage
Results
3 Weeks Post-Application
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Spinach showed a clear turnaround in growth.
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Damaged leaves began to clear and new leaf area expanded rapidly.
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Canopy uniformity improved, indicating more even plant health across the paddock.
6 Weeks Post-Application
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The crop had recovered strongly, achieving a healthier, denser canopy.
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Growth trajectory suggested the crop was on track for a stronger final seed yield despite early setbacks.
Photographic evidence from trial footage supports these observations, with significant visual improvement in crop condition over time.
Why It Worked
Plant-Stim’s mode of action helps plants respond better to stress by:
1. Stimulating Growth Processes
Plant-Stim contains natural growth substances that activate secondary messengers, increasing cell division and root + shoot mass. This helps plants rebuild tissue and recover faster after stress.
2. Boosting Photosynthesis and Energy Capture
Healthier, cleaner foliage resulting from Plant-Stim application increases the crop’s ability to trap sunlight and convert it to growth.
3. Enhancing Nutrient & Water Uptake
Improved leaf permeability and nutrient access support quicker physiological recovery. These effects are especially beneficial when crops need to transition from a stress phase back into rapid vegetative growth.
4. Microbial Support via EM Components
EM in Plant-Stim can support beneficial microbial activity on leaf surfaces and in soil, helping overall plant health and resilience.
Take-Home Insights
This spinach recovery case demonstrates that Plant-Stim® can be an effective tool for helping crops rebound after stress events. The product’s multi-mode action—supporting growth pathways, nutrient uptake and canopy development—helps accelerate recovery timelines and set up the crop for stronger finishing performance.
Growers facing similar stress conditions—such as wind damage, temporary nutrient lock-ups, or post-herbicide response slowdowns—can consider integrating Plant-Stim into their foliar support programs to restore vigour and protect yield potential.
See video of crop recovery here:
