Powered by Ether™ Enzyme Technology, farmers can take more cost out

DELAVAN, Wis. (AgPR) July 29, 2025 — Today Meristem Crop Performance launched the new Upshift C Plus dry concentrate starter fertilizer replacement at the Breakthrough to Excellence dealer/partner exchange.

The easy-to-use Upshift C Plus at-plant fertility program is powered by a patented enzyme package that unlocks phosphorus and other nutrients. The 12-58-0 formulation includes active, EDTA chelated zinc for better enzyme metabolic reaction and added phenolic acid compounds to assist with early season abiotic stress.

Upshift C Plus is the most recent addition to Meristem's successful Upshift C product line-up developed to add efficiency to supply chains by not shipping water and empower farmers by replacing costly, corrosive traditional fertilizer programs.

"One of the biggest wastes in U.S. agriculture is transporting water. With these concentrates, it allows farmers to take cost out by adding the water on the farm. Upshift C can replace higher cost, high-salt products by letting the power of those enzymes do the work," said Mitch Eviston, Meristem Founder and CEO. "This added zinc with stress mitigators in Upshift C Plus is the next innovation for our Upshift C family of products in response to farmers who want to save a step at the field. It is just one more option to help farmers produce more for less. It can also be used as a foliar and is a great acidifier."

With Ether as a catalyst to unlock the full potential of the soil's nutrient and water resources, the patented enzymes in Upshift C Plus do the heavy lifting. Phosphatase enzymes release phosphate in the soil. Mannanase enzymes break down starches that surround the outermost layer of the root tip, ultimately boosting root growth and microbial activity.

"Upshift C for us has been a real benefit in terms of fertilizer efficiency and cost savings while maintaining or boosting yields. The low salt is safe for biologicals and better for soil health," said Nick Fries of Summit View Ag near Norwalk, Wis. "With the new Upshift C Plus, we will get the added benefits of zinc already incorporated into the product. I also like that Upshift C Plus will have some of the same stress mitigating properties that are in Harvestshield™ Complete, which we use on every acre with great results."

Like its predecessor, Upshift C Plus is designed to avoid clumping and easily dissolves in water with minimal agitation.

"Upshift C Plus is building on top of a really good product by addressing early season crop needs," said Chris Thrasher, Meristem's Director of Innovation and Product Management. "The patented enzyme is really what's making the difference. Upshift C Plus will be a blue color, and the original pink Upshift C will still be available as well. We've really put the work in at Meristem to have good formulations and a firm foundation for delivering technology today and for future pipeline additions."

About Meristem Crop Performance

Meristem® Crop Performance, Inc. helps farmers produce more bushels for less cost per bushel. Meristem is the global leader in delivering live, in-field biologicals through the patented Bio-Capsule™ technology platform. Meristem significantly reduces waste and increases productivity in crop input systems through accelerated access to innovation, improved supply chain efficiency, and advanced concentrates. Learn more at www.meristemag.com.