New Tech for Heat Stress in Crops: Biostimulant 'Sugiyamansui' Prevents Strawberry Seedling Death

Hida Sangyo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Takayama City, Gifu; President: Akiko Okada) has conducted joint research with Gifu University on its biostimulant material 'Sugiyamansui.' The research confirmed that the cedar leaf distillate component, extracted via patented technology, enhances the antioxidant function of plants. This led to promoted growth of seedlings, maintenance of growth under high-temperature stress conditions, and a trend toward increased yields.

Based on these findings, 'Sugiyamansui' is expected to be utilized as a new heat-countermeasure material that supports the healthy growth of crops under environmental stresses such as extreme heat waves, leading to stabilized yields.

*Note 1: Antioxidant function | When plants face environmental stress like high or low temperatures, harmful reactive oxygen species increase in their bodies. Antioxidant functions remove these, suppressing cellular damage and helping maintain growth.

Research Background Due to the impact of climate change, extreme summer heat has become more severe in Japanese agriculture in recent years, increasing risks such as poor seedling establishment and growth stagnation. Interest in biostimulant materials that draw out a plant's inherent abilities is rising as a countermeasure. 'Sugiyamansui' has previously been reported to improve environmental stress tolerance and reduce 'production fatigue' (Note 2) at agricultural production sites. This study verified its mechanism of action and its impact on plant growth and high-temperature stress tolerance.

*Note 2: Production fatigue | A phenomenon where plant growth and yield decline due to continuous harvesting.

Research Results 1. Increased Root Mass and Improved Seedling Growth In a growth evaluation test using strawberry seedlings, the group treated with 'Sugiyamansui' showed a 140% increase in root mass (with 100x dilution) compared to the control group, along with improved growth in both stems and leaves. Furthermore, while plants accumulate harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) under environmental stress, this test confirmed an improvement in antioxidant function (DPPH radical scavenging activity *Note 3) in the 'Sugiyamansui' treated group.

[Common Test Conditions 1-3] Period: April - August 2025 / Item: Strawberry (Suzuakane) / Location: Gifu University Farm / Fertilization: 180-day effective (N:P:K=13:9:11)

*Note 3: DPPH radical scavenging activity is an index showing the antioxidant function of plants, indicating the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species.