Efficient Photosynthesis: The Cornerstone of Life

Photosynthesis is arguably the most crucial chemical reaction for sustaining life on Earth. In simple terms, photosynthesis involves carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) reacting with energy from sunlight to produce sugar (glucose) and oxygen (O₂). The oxygen is released into the atmosphere, contributing to the breathable air, while the glucose serves as the foundation of the food chain. This remarkable process occurs within the chloroplasts in the leaves of plants.

The Role of Sugar in the Soil

Of the glucose produced during photosynthesis, plants allocate about half to the soil through their roots. This glucose acts as a “payment” to beneficial soil microbes, which, in return, provide essential minerals to the plants. These microbes utilize the glucose to thrive and, in the process, decompose soil components into absorbable mineral forms like phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), boron (Bo), and sulfur (S). Some microbes also capture nitrogen (N) from the air and convert it into a usable form for plants. This mutually beneficial relationship is known as natural symbiosis.

 The Impact of Insufficient Beneficial Microbes

If beneficial microbes are not present in sufficient numbers, the soil’s pathogens—harmful microbes—can proliferate. Plants may inadvertently feed these pathogens with their glucose, leading to attacks on the plant itself. Consequently, the plant suffers from mineral deficiencies and becomes susceptible to infections, resulting in poor health and potentially death.

 Why Do Plants Need Minerals?

Phosphorus is essential for the process of photosynthesis. Further, all these minerals are crucial for constructing components like chloroplasts, where photosynthesis occurs. Without these minerals, the plant cannot build these vital structures.

 For photosynthesis to proceed efficiently, several conditions must be met:

– Sufficient sunlight must reach the plant.

– Availability of CO₂, which is typically abundant in the atmosphere.

– Water uptake by the roots from the soil.

– Adequate minerals and beneficial microbes in the soil to transport these minerals to the plant roots.

– Availability of sufficient nutrient in the soil, which is done through fertilizer supplements of various nature. 

 Enhancing Soil Health with MAC

Mitrasena’s intervention with MAC (Microbe Activated Carbon) ensures a robust population of beneficial microbes in the soil. This intervention improves the efficiency of fertilizer use and maintains a steady supply of essential minerals to plants. By outcompeting pathogens, these beneficial microbes help protect the plants from infections.

 Introducing Mycorrhiza with R-Jaal

R-Jaal introduces mycorrhiza to plant roots, fostering a dense and extensive root network. This enhanced root system allows plants to access water and minerals from a much larger soil area, improving overall plant health and growth.

 Maximizing Sunlight Utilization

To increase the amount of sunlight a plant can capture, think of the plant as a solar panel. A well-structured and expanded leaf surface area—measured by the Leaf Surface Area Index—allows for more efficient sunlight capture. Mitrasena recommends the use of SILPOT, which infuses plants with biogenic silica, strengthening the silica wall beneath the leaf cuticles. This results in stronger plants with more spread-out leaves. The Leaf Surface Area Index increases by 10-20%. As a result, photosynthesis is enhanced. A robust plant structure also facilitates better transport of minerals from roots to shoots.

 Thus, the net impact is that the plant becomes a very efficient food producing system.

We shall discuss the impact of this in next article.