Plants warn each other of danger, now we can watch them

n cutting one blade of grass using scissors, May 6, 2020. | Photo Credit: Bruno Kelzer/Unsplash

If you’ve enjoyed the smell of fresh cut grass, you may have unwittingly eavesdropped on a conversation between plants.

The smell is caused by a group of compounds called green leaf volatiles (GLVs) that a plant releases into the air when it is injured. Although it can be a very pleasant smell to humans, to other plants it may be a warning letting them know that danger is near.

Scientists have known for some time that plants can eavesdrop on damage to other plants nearby. Doing so can benefit a plant, which can take steps to defend itself. Scientists are considering harnessing this process to fight agricultural pests without having to use pesticides – although exactly how plants detect danger and protect themselves remains unknown.