The subject application provides methods for the direct or indirect improvement of levels of key phytonutrients and/or stress tolerance in plants. Methods of providing for the improvement in key phytonutrient levels and/or stress tolerance in plants are provided through the application of safeners, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, nematicides, miticides, defoliants/desiccants. antibiotics, and/or plant growth regulators to plants. Agricultural products arising from the disclosed methods are also provided.