Understanding the science behind flavonoid-based biostimulants Flavonoids: nature’s secret weapon for resilient potato crops
Trial data

Potato farming is full of challenges – from unpredictable weather to soil stress and disease pressure. But what if plants had a natural way to strengthen themselves against these threats?
Flavonoids, naturally occurring plant compounds, play a crucial role in stress resilience and growth. Found in Maxstim Agriculture+, flavonoids enhance plant defence mechanisms, improve nutrient uptake, and support overall crop health.
What are flavonoids and why do they matter?
Flavonoids are a diverse group of bioactive plant compounds with antioxidant properties. In simple terms, they act as:
- Defenders – Helping plants resist environmental stresses like extreme temperatures, drought, and soil salinity.
- Growth boosters – Enhancing nutrient absorption and metabolic efficiency.
- Regulators – Improving photosynthesis, root development, and overall plant vitality.
Research has shown that potato plants treated with Maxstim Agriculture + (a flavonoid-based biostimulant) develop stronger roots, higher chlorophyll levels, and greater stress tolerance – all of which contribute to higher yields and better quality tubers.
How do flavonoid-based biostimulants help in stressful conditions?
Modern agriculture is facing more unpredictable weather than ever before, leading to heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall events. Flavonoids provide an edge by:
Reducing heat & drought stress
Flavonoids act like a sunscreen for plants, minimising oxidative damage from excessive heat while improving water retention.
Enhancing water use efficiency
By strengthening root systems and regulating stomatal openings, flavonoids help plants absorb and retain moisture more effectively, reducing water loss during dry periods.
Strengthening natural defences
These compounds stimulate the plant’s immune response, making it more resistant to common potato diseases, such as late blight and bacterial wilt.
Boosting photosynthesis for stronger growth
With improved chlorophyll production, plants become more efficient at converting sunlight into energy, supporting faster and healthier growth.
The evidence: real-world results in potato farming
In field trials, Maxstim Agriculture+ demonstrated:
- Defenders – Helping plants resist environmental stresses like extreme temperatures, drought, and soil salinity.
- 33% increase in tuber weight, shifting towards more marketable size categories.
- Higher chlorophyll levels, supporting healthier, greener plants with increased resilience.
By using flavonoid-based biostimulants, potato growers can enhance crop performance naturally, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs while maintaining high yields.
Read the full study on the science behind this innovation:
Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems.
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Tim Cannon
Email: tim.cannon@maxstim.com
Mobile: 07884 586191
Phil Kingsmill
Email: phil.kingsmill@maxstim.com
Mobile: 07860 269996
Leanne Coleman
Email: leanne.coleman@maxstim.com
Mobile: 07552 097554
Tony Kelly
Email: tony.kelly@maxstim.com
Mobile: 07974 435417