Plant growth is an extremely important part of the ecosystem, and without it, a lot of things can go wrong. Like all living organisms, plants are expected to grow, and an absence of growth is an indication that something is wrong. Crops provide a natural habitat for some organisms, and when they don’t grow, these organisms are affected. Eventually, this leads to an imbalance that disrupts the natural flow of the ecosystem.
The absence of crop productivity can also cause a decline in food availability and impact an economy’s health as sectors such as food processing are significantly affected, consequently increasing the cost of food prices. It is, therefore, important that plant growth is not handled with triviality but with utmost priority.

The Role Of CO2 In Improving Crop Productivity

CO2 is a major player in determining plant growth and productivity. Its relevance cannot be sidelined, as crops cannot survive without this gas. Let us examine the various ways in which Carbon Dioxide is responsible for plant productivity.

Aids Photosynthesis And Increases Biomass

Photosynthesis is a vital part of a plant’s growth, and it cannot take place without Carbon Dioxide (CO2). It is the process in which plants take in CO2 and convert it to energy and oxygen with the help of sunlight. When CO2 levels are low, crops are unable to carry out this process effectively, causing stunted growth.
The presence of CO2 also increases the production of carbohydrates, increasing the size of the plant. Increased biomass indicates that the plants are in good health and can be productive.

Promotes Secondary Metabolism

When CO2 is present, plants produce more antioxidants that improve the plant’s overall health and strength. This process is referred to as secondary metabolism. When crops undergo secondary metabolism, their defense system becomes stronger, increasing their resistance to diseases. Secondary metabolism also increases plant productivity and yield.

Stomata Regulation

Stomata are tiny pores present on plant leaves that allow Carbon Dioxide to enter the plant for photosynthesis and also allow the release of Oxygen. The presence of CO2 makes the plant open less, conserving water in the plant. This water conservation allows plants to flourish even when they do not have enough access to water.

PH Regulation

As plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, a part of it called Carbonic Acid is used to maintain their optimum PH levels. A balanced PH level ensures that plants properly utilize nutrients from the soil, making them healthier and facilitating biochemical processes needed for crop growth.

Stress Tolerance

Elevated Carbon Dioxide levels increase crops’ energy levels during photosynthesis, and this surplus energy can then be directed toward their defense system, making it easy for them to withstand external triggers such as drought.

Without Carbon Dioxide, plants can’t thrive. CO2 is as important to plants as Oxygen is to humans. As a farmer, NexAir is dedicated to making your job easier by providing you with the CO2 your plants need to thrive. Get in touch with us today to get started.