Key Differences Between Biostimulants and Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs)

1. Definition & Source

• Biostimulants:

Naturally derived substances (e.g., seaweed extracts, humic acids, amino acids, chitosan) obtained via bioprocessing, not chemical synthesis. Defined by the EU as "products stimulating plant nutrition processes independently of the nutrient content". 

• Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs):

Synthetic chemicals or microbial extracts that mimic endogenous plant hormones (e.g., auxins, gibberellins) to directly alter growth patterns. 

 2. Mechanism of Action

• Biostimulants: 

oIndirect: Enhance nutrient uptake, stress tolerance (drought/salinity), and soil health by activating plant metabolic pathways or soil microbiology. 

oDo not alter plant hormones. 

• PGRs: 

Direct: Interfere with hormonal signaling (e.g., cell division, flowering, fruit set) by overriding natural plant physiology. 

3. Functional Contrast

4. Regulatory Status

• EU: Classifies biostimulants under fertilizer regulations (excluded from pesticides). 

• USA: Some biostimulants regulated as pesticides due to bioactive claims. 

• China: PGRs require pesticide registration; biostimulants lack unified regulation. 

Comparative Summary

Core Difference:

Biostimulants enhance natural plant processes (non-hormonal), improving resilience and efficiency. PGRs directly override plant physiology via hormonal manipulation for targeted outcomes. Combined use can optimize yield while reducing ecological impact. 

[1]: Du Jardin, P. (2015). Plant Science

[2]: EU Fertilizing Products Regulation (2019/1009)

[3]: Rouphael & Colla (2020). Frontiers in Plant Science

[4]: China Pesticide Registration Guidelines

[5]: Yakhin et al. (2017). Plant and Soil

[6]: Global Biostimulants Market Report (2023)