New Technology for Crop Heat Stress: Biostimulant 'Sugisansui' Suppresses Strawberry Seedling Death

Hida Sangyo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture; President: Akiko Okada; hereinafter 'Hida Sangyo') conducted joint research with Gifu University (Tokai National Higher Education and Research System) regarding the biostimulant material 'Sugisansui.' The results confirmed that the cedar branch and leaf distillation components extracted via patented technology enhance the antioxidant function of plants. The use of 'Sugisansui' was observed to promote seedling growth, maintain growth under high-temperature stress conditions, and show a trend toward increased yields. Based on these findings, 'Sugisansui' is expected to be utilized as a new heat-stress mitigation material that supports healthy crop growth and yield stability under environmental stresses such as extreme heat. Research Background: Due to climate change, extreme summer heat has become a serious issue in Japanese agriculture, increasing risks such as poor seedling establishment and growth stagnation. There is growing interest in biostimulant materials that unlock the plant's inherent capabilities. 'Sugisansui' has previously been reported to improve environmental stress tolerance and reduce 'nari-tsukare' (yield fatigue). This study verified its mechanism of action and its impact on plant growth and heat stress tolerance. Research Results: 1. Increased root mass and improved seedling growth: In growth evaluation tests using strawberry seedlings, the 'Sugisansui' group showed a 140% increase in root mass compared to the control group (at 100x dilution), with improvements in both leaves, stems, and roots. Additionally, while plants accumulate harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) under stress, the 'Sugisansui' group showed improved antioxidant function (DPPH radical scavenging activity). 2. Suppression of death even in extreme heat: In high-temperature stress tests, no plant death was observed in the 'Sugisansui' group, and leaf browning was reduced by approximately 94% compared to the control. An increase in antioxidant enzymes (SOD activity) was also confirmed. 3. Stable yields under stress: In yield evaluation tests, even under reduced fertilizer conditions, an increase in strawberry yield was confirmed. Furthermore, the harvest started earlier, and stable yields were maintained until the end of the season. Future Outlook: Hida Sangyo will continue joint research with Gifu University to further verify the effects of 'Sugisansui' on plant physiology and environmental stress tolerance. Amid concerns over rising fertilizer prices, the company aims to promote this material as a support for sustainable agriculture for various crops, including strawberries and rice.