Every plant, whether a productive fruit tree or an ornamental shrub, carries a unique genetic code.

A code which determines how tall it can grow, how much fruit it can bear, how resistant it can be to disease, and how well it responds to environmental changes.

This is referred to as the plant’s genetic potential – its built-in blueprint for optimal performance.

However, a plant's ability to express this genetic potential depends heavily on its surroundings. Environmental and biological factors – collectively known as plant stressors – can limit or even suppress this potential.

Broadly, these stressors fall into two categories: abiotic (non-living) and biotic (living).

Abiotic stress: the silent winter threat

Abiotic stress includes all the physical and chemical pressures from the environment such as cold, drought, wind, salinity, and UV radiation.

During winter, abiotic stress can be particularly damaging.

Cold temperatures lead to cellular dehydration, while freeze-thaw cycles cause tissue rupture.

Pruned wounds are exposed to moisture loss, oxidation, and temperature fluctuations.

Even in dormancy, trees must work to maintain internal balance under these stresses.

If this stress load becomes too heavy, it can compromise key physiological processes such as bud development, nutrient mobilisation, and energy storage.

As a result, trees emerge into spring weaker, slower, less productive and unable to reach their full genetic potential.

Biotic stress: the hidden microbial load

On the other hand, biotic stress refers to damage caused by living organisms such as fungi, bacteria, insects, and mites.

Many of these pests and pathogens overwinter on tree bark, in buds, or within pruning wounds, waiting for warmer conditions to strike.

While these threats are not always visible in winter, their presence places the tree under ongoing biological pressure.

The plant is forced to maintain low-level immune responses, consuming energy it would otherwise use for growth and recovery in spring.

Kendon Lime Sulphur: A dual-action winter solution

Kendon Lime Sulphur is more than just a traditional winter clean-up spray, it’s a scientifically formulated solution designed to protect dormant plants on multiple fronts.

At its core, this treatment contains calcium polysulphides, which deliver a powerful combination of biocidal action and nutritional support that reduces plant abiotic stress.

First and foremost, Kendon Lime Sulphur acts as a potent biocide.

It targets and eradicates overwintering fungal spores, insect eggs, and microbial colonies that linger on bark and buds. 

As the Kendon Lime Sulphur breaks down, it releases sulphur dioxide – an active compound which either kills pests on contact or through fumigation.

This sulphur is absorbed by insects and mites, disrupting their energy production, while hydrogen sulphide gas (with its distinctive rotten egg smell) forms as the solution reacts with the atmosphere, further poisoning harmful organisms.

This process significantly reduces biotic stress, easing the burden on the plant’s immune system and allowing it to conserve energy during the dormant season.

Beyond pest control, Kendon Lime Sulphur also plays a crucial role in managing abiotic stress.

The calcium content helps strengthen plant cell membranes, enhancing tissue resilience against cold, dehydration, and mechanical damage.

Moreover, it leaves behind a protective layer on exposed surfaces post-pruning, helping to minimise moisture loss and buffer the effects of harsh temperature fluctuations.

In short, Kendon Lime Sulphur offers a dual-action defence – biological and physical – which equips plants to face winter in stronger, healthier condition.

Preserving performance and potential

By minimising both abiotic and biotic stressors during the dormant season, Kendon Lime Sulphur creates conditions where a plant can rest, recover, and prepare for strong spring growth.

In doing so, it supports the full expression of a plant’s genetic potential – ensuring its natural capabilities are not lost to the invisible pressures of winter.

In short, Kendon Lime Sulphur is more than a pest control tool, it’s a strategic ally in helping plants thrive under both environmental and biological challenges.