Chemical Induction | AgarStart™ | AgarStart™ Formulation | AgarStart™ Development | AgarStart™ Profile
Formulation and preparation guide for Barino™ AgarStart™ agarwood inoculant, which combines Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) and Salicylic Acid for chemical stress induction in Aquilaria trees.
Barino™ AgarStart™ Formulation Guide
Target Purpose:
To chemically induce agarwood resin formation by mimicking abiotic stress pathways through FeCl₃-induced oxidation and salicylic acid–mediated plant defense activation.
Active Components (per 1 Liter of Solution)
| Ingredient | Function | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃), anhydrous or hexahydrate | Oxidative stress agent | 20–25 g |
| Salicylic Acid (SA) | Plant immune system activator | 0.5–1.0 g |
| Ethanol (95%) | Solvent for salicylic acid | 50–100 mL |
| Distilled Water | Base solution carrier | to make 1,000 mL |
Preparation Procedure
- Dissolve Salicylic Acid:
- In a glass beaker, dissolve 0.5–1.0 g of salicylic acid in 50–100 mL of 95% ethanol. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Prepare FeCl₃ Solution:
- In a separate container, dissolve 20–25 g of Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) in about 800 mL of distilled water. Stir with a non-metallic stirrer (plastic or glass).
- Combine Solutions:
- Slowly pour the salicylic acid/ethanol solution into the FeCl₃ solution while stirring continuously.
- Top Up to 1 Liter:
- Add more distilled water to reach exactly 1,000 mL total volume.
- Optional – pH Adjustment:
- Measure pH. If needed, adjust to pH 3.5–4.5 using dilute citric acid or sodium bicarbonate. This range supports FeCl₃ stability and reduces phytotoxicity.
- Filtration (Optional but Recommended):
- Filter through a 0.45 μm membrane or fine cheesecloth if clogging risk is present in injectors.
- Storage:
- Store in amber bottles or opaque HDPE containers.
- Shelf life: up to 6 months in cool, dark storage.
Recommended Application Method
- Tree Age: 5+ years or ≥10 cm DBH
- Inoculation Site: Trunk or major branches (15–20 cm spacing)
- Dose per Hole: 10–20 mL
- Application Tool: Syringe or pressure injector
- Reinoculation: After 6–12 months, if needed
Safety Notes:
- Handle with gloves and goggles.
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and metal tools (FeCl₃ is corrosive).
- Rinse tools with distilled water immediately after use.