08 August 2026, New Delhi: Where Torque IF establishes strong early-season biology in-furrow, Novonesis Ratchet extends that biological advantage through the growing season with a foliar-applied biostimulant built on the same LCO Promoter Technology platform.
Foliar LCO Application: A Different Mode of Action
Applied to plant leaves rather than the root zone, Ratchet works by enhancing photosynthesis through LCO signaling molecules absorbed directly by foliar tissue. This mode of action targets a different physiological pathway than in-furrow biostimulants, allowing growers to compound biological benefits across multiple application timings throughout the season.
Proven Yield Performance
Novonesis field data demonstrates Ratchet’s foliar application boosts corn yields by +4.8 bushels per acre and soybean yields by +2.1 bushels per acre—gains achieved by enhancing the plant’s own photosynthetic efficiency rather than through additional fertility inputs.
A Season-Long Biological Strategy
Ratchet’s real value emerges when it’s used as part of a coordinated program alongside in-furrow products like Torque IF or Optimize. Growers applying both in-furrow and foliar LCO-based biostimulants are effectively supporting the plant’s biology at two distinct developmental windows—early root and mycorrhizal establishment, followed by mid-season photosynthetic enhancement—creating a compounding effect on yield potential.
Application Timing and Flexibility
As a foliar spray, Ratchet offers growers flexibility to time application around critical growth stages and can typically be incorporated into existing foliar fungicide or micronutrient spray passes, minimizing additional trips across the field.
Key Benefits
+4.8 bushel/acre yield advantage in corn and +2.1 bushel/acre in soybeans, per Novonesis field data
Enhances photosynthetic efficiency through foliar LCO signaling
Complements in-furrow biostimulants like Torque IF and Optimize for a season-long program
Flexible foliar application timing, compatible with existing spray operations
Backed by patented LCO Promoter Technology
The Case for Foliar Biostimulants in Row Crops
As row-crop growers look for incremental yield gains beyond traditional fertility and genetics improvements, foliar biostimulants like Ratchet represent a low-risk, high-return addition to the input program. By working with the plant’s own photosynthetic machinery, Ratchet offers a biologically grounded path to additional bushels—without the resistance concerns or environmental load of additional synthetic inputs.
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