Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your botanical journey, these planty facts will add a sprinkle of wonder when you next look at your plant babes.
Plants Have a Language of Their Own:
Did you know that plants communicate with each other? In a phenomenon known as allelopathy, plants release chemicals to influence the growth and behaviour of nearby plants. It's like a secret language of scents and signals that helps them thrive in harmony.
One of the coolest examples of this is the Pecan Tree. As Robin Wall Kimmerer writes in her book Braiding Sweetgrass:
“If one tree fruits, they all fruit - there are no soloists. Not one tree in a grove, but the whole grove; not one grove in the forest, but every grove; all across the county and all across the state. The trees act not as individuals, but somehow as a collective.”
🤯 mind blowing
The Marvel of Plant Memory:
Plants have a memory! Research suggests that plants can remember past events and adjust their responses accordingly. Imagine your favourite plant recalling your care routines and responding with bursts of vibrant growth – it's a testament to the bond you share.
(So make sure you’re caring for them properly.)
Plants Can "Hear" You:
While plants don't have ears in the traditional sense, they can perceive sound vibrations. Studies indicate that certain frequencies, like the sound of a caterpillar munching on leaves, trigger defensive responses in plants. So all those chats you have with your plants might not be solo conversations – they might just be listening!
Here’s a tip to prevent pests so your babies don’t have to hear that devastating “munch”.
The Underground Internet of Fungi:
Beneath the surface, a fascinating network of fungi connects plants in a symbiotic relationship called the mycorrhizal network. Through this underground internet, plants share nutrients, warnings about pests, and even help neighbouring plants in distress. It's a complex web of interconnected support.
Plants Have Circadian Rhythms Too:
Just like humans, plants have internal clocks that regulate their daily activities. From opening and closing their flowers to adjusting their metabolic processes, plants follow circadian rhythms. Understanding these natural cycles can guide you in optimising your plant care routine for optimal growth.
Pretty cool right?
When you're observing their subtle cues or experimenting with new care routines, remember that your plants are not just decorations – they're dynamic beings with stories of their own.