Plant Cuttings

Tag: science communication

  • Photosynthesis operating above par…

    Photosynthesis operating above par…

    Lazzarin et al. (2025) show that far-red light (701-750 nm), previously considered outside of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), can enhance photosynthesis in tomato plants. While research suggests revising PAR definitions to include far-red wavelengths, the role of this light in plant life remains complex and requires further investigation to fully…

  • When volcanology meets plant biology*

    When volcanology meets plant biology*

    Research by Guinn et al. (2024) indicates that volcanic CO2-enhanced plant growth, is detectable via satellite using the NDVI metric. Greener vegetation can be used as a proxy for increased CO2 release from volcanoes, serving as an early warning for volcanic activity. This method can also be used to monitor…

  • 24 hours of flower power…

    24 hours of flower power…

    “Flower Day” by Sandra Knapp presents 24 mini-essays on diverse plants, highlighting their biology, ecology, and ethnobotanical significance. The book reflects on floral beauty and the intricate relationships between plants, pollinators, and indigenous knowledge, fostering appreciation for nature while emphasizing the need to protect it amidst environmental threats.

  • The shockingly beneficial effects of lightning on trees

    The shockingly beneficial effects of lightning on trees

    The post discusses the dual nature of lightning’s impact on the environment. While it can kill trees, particularly in tropical forests, certain species like Dipteryx oleifera benefit from strikes by eliminating competing vegetation Additionally, lightning facilitates nitrogen fixation, promoting plant growth by contributing essential nutrients to the soil.

  • Plants in the literary tradition

    Plants in the literary tradition

    The Cambridge Handbook of Literature and Plants, edited by Bonnie Lander Johnson, is a scholarly compilation of 19 expert contributions exploring plant representation in global literature over two millennia. Covering diverse themes, it encourages readers to reconsider human-plant relationships and enhances our understanding of plants in literature, poetry, and song.

  • Microplastics and plants: A surprising connection

    Microplastics and plants: A surprising connection

    Ye Li et al. (2025) discovered that maize leaves absorb airborne microplastics (MPs) through stomata. Finding MPs in vascular tissues, they could potentially move within the plant, e.g., into developing fruits, raising concerns about human consumption. Additionally, MPs were found in leaves of several other human food plants, indicating an…

  • The scented statues: Greco-Roman aromatic practices

    The scented statues: Greco-Roman aromatic practices

    The post discusses the olfactory heritage of ancient Greco-Roman sculptures, emphasising the use of aromatic oils and perfumes on statues. Research by Cecilie Brøns reveals that scent-enriched religious and secular artworks suggest an intriguing sensory experience beyond their visual appeal, thus inviting further exploration into ancient practices of beautification through…

  • Exploring the biology of algae, lichens, and bryophytes

    Exploring the biology of algae, lichens, and bryophytes

    The book “Biology of algae, lichens and bryophytes,” edited by Büdel, Friedl & Beyschlag, offers a comprehensive overview of these crucial organisms, highlighting their biodiversity and ecological significance. Its pedagogic credentials are high and provides insights for advanced students and enthusiasts in plant biology.

  • Ancient sand farmers of The Levant

    Ancient sand farmers of The Levant

    The plot-and-berm agroecosystem in Caesarea, established over a thousand years ago, transformed sandy soil into productive agricultural land. By creating small plots surrounded by berms, early inhabitants enhanced soil fertility and utilized groundwater for irrigation. This ingenious system showcases ancient agricultural techniques, offering insights relevant to modern farming in arid…

  • Plants suffer from viruses too… [From algae to rice plants… III]

    Plants suffer from viruses too… [From algae to rice plants… III]

    The post considers virus disease of plants and highlights research by Yu Huang et al. (2025) that reveals how rice detects and responds to viral infection. Such work is crucial for enhancing crop resilience and ensuring food security for the global human population.