Plant metabolism can be divided into primary metabolism, which encompasses reactions and pathways vital for survival, and secondary metabolism, which fulfills a multitude of important functions for growth and development, including the interaction of the plant with environmental stresses.
A primary metabolite is directly involved in a plant’s normal growth, development, and reproduction, usually performing a physiological function. Some common examples of primary metabolites include ethanol, lactic acid, and certain amino acids. Primary metabolites are typically present in many plant cells because of their roles in basic cell metabolism. In higher plants such compounds are also often concentrated in seeds and vegetative storage organs, to be available for the plant’s physiological development when needed.
Secondary metabolites protect the plant against biotic and abiotic stresses. They also are responsible for several important characteristics that attract seed dispersers, such as aroma, color, and fruit nutritional value. Phenolic and terpenoid compounds are some of the largest and most diverse classes of secondary metabolites that contribute to fruit quality and the defenses of the plant.
The production of secondary metabolites in a plant is paramount as environmental stresses, including biotic and abiotic factors, adversely affect the growth and development of crops, lowering their yield. Abiotic factors like drought, salinity, cold, heat, ultraviolet radiation, trace metals, and soil pH, are extremely destructive and decrease crop yield worldwide. It is estimated that more than 50% of crop production losses are due to abiotic stresses.
Future climate change will impact the primary metabolic functions of plant growth and development, as well as the secondary metabolism. Increasing temperature and atmospheric CO2 concentration will affect plant growth, net primary productivity, photosynthetic capability, and other biochemical functions that are essential for normal metabolic function.
Andaman Ag sells a product called Coriphol. Coriphol is the byproduct of producing biochar from almond shells. It’s composed of phenols, organic acids, and biomolecules. There is a tremendous amount of data supporting the application of Coriphol. Research has shown: (1) Coriphol improves plant vascular structures, meaning the plant can better distribute sugars from the leaves to pods/flowers/roots. (2) Coriphol increases chlorophyll levels and increases the production of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll, as you know, is the primary pigment responsible for photosynthesis. However, when sun intensity exceeds the plant’s ability to process the light, it shuts down Chlorophyl A and produces Chlorophyl B. Chlorophyl A and B access different light spectra. This means that Coriphol increases the plant’s ability to make sugars and grow during periods of high sunlight intensity. (3) Finally, Coriphol is packed with phenols. Subsidizing the plant’s phenol production means that the plant can remain on course for growth and reproduction providing a means to combat our new climate challenges.
