Integrative omics and field studies reveal the efficacy of PlantGuard, a next-generation biostimulant

Abstract

This study presents the development and evaluation of a novel, natural plant oil-based biostimulant called PlantGuard, formulated from a blend of essential oil components and emulsifiers designed to enhance crop performance under field and controlled-environment hydroponics conditions. The biostimulant was applied to horticultural vegetables and crops such as tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum ) and shallot (Allium cepa var. aggregatum) , as well as rice ( Oryza sativa ) across multiple trial sites in Indonesia over two growing seasons. Treated plots demonstrated statistically significant improvements in flowering synchrony, fruit set, biomass accumulation, and overall yield, with increases ranging from 15% to 32% compared to untreated controls. We also studied the effect of PlantGuard on tomatoes and kale ( Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) , grown under hydroponic conditions and recorded an almost 3-fold increase in total yield. To characterize biological responses associated with PlantGuard, a comprehensive molecular analysis was conducted comprising RNA sequencing, quantitative proteomics, and untargeted metabolomics. RNA-sequencing profiling revealed differential expression of genes associated with photosynthesis, nutrient transport, hormonal signaling, including jasmonic acid- and auxin-related responses, and defense processes. Proteomic analyses confirmed the enhanced expression of stress-related proteins, antioxidant enzymes, and metabolic regulators. Metabolomic fingerprinting identified elevated levels of phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, and lipid-derived signaling molecules associated with abiotic stress mitigation and plant growth promotion. Collectively, these multi-omics findings validate the functional activity of PlantGuard at the molecular level and support its application as a sustainable input for enhancing crop and vegetable productivity by increasing plant growth and resilience in diverse agricultural systems.