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Image: Green wall experimental design used for Expt. 1. The six blocks of treatments with the three spiderwort selections of zebra plant, ‘Burgundy’ zebra plant, and inch plant are denoted with red squares, placement of light/temperature sensors (one per block) are shown with magenta circles, sentinel pots used to determine need for irrigation are shown with blue triangles (eight dispersed throughout the green wall), and average light levels (µmol·m−2·s−1) per block are reported in white boxes. Average light levels were determined by averaging the light reading at each pot location in each block. Credit: American Society for Horticultural Science

Treating Potted Zebra Plant and Inch Plant Used in Interior Green Wall to Regulate Stem Elongation

By | Agriculture, News

Maintaining the health of green walls poses challenges, often requiring costly professional care due to plant elongation in low-light environments. Recent research explored using antigibberellin plant growth regulators to combat this issue. Application of PGRs resulted in compact growth, potentially reducing maintenance costs and preserving aesthetic appeal.

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forest fire

Understanding how fire shapes plants will help protect them 

By | Forestry, News

Understanding how fire influences plant life is crucial for safeguarding biodiversity. By predicting plant responses to fire, scientists aid conservation efforts. Through traits like resprouting and seed germination, plants adapt to fire-prone ecosystems. With accurate predictions, land managers can plan controlled burns effectively, crucial as fire patterns evolve. Advancing fire-plant knowledge is key to future protection.

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Division orientation defined by directional cell expansion. Credit: Developmental Cell (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.009

Wounded plants: how they coordinate their healing

By | News, Plant Science

In a new study, scientists unraveled the mystery behind how wounded plants coordinate their healing. By investigating the role of the hormone Auxin and pressure changes, they discovered the intricate cellular mechanisms guiding plant regeneration. This understanding sheds light on how plants adapt and survive in challenging environments.

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New satellite dataset sheds light on Earth’s plant growth

By | Botany, News

A groundbreaking satellite dataset, derived from TROPOMI’s observations, revolutionizes our understanding of Earth’s plant growth. The Comprehensive Mechanistic Light Response (CMLR) Gross Primary Production (GPP) dataset utilizes solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence to accurately quantify global photosynthesis. This advancement holds promise for climate change research, land management policies, and environmental conservation efforts.

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Image: seagrass meadow. Credit: Benjamin L Jones

Seagrass meadows face uncertain future, scientists say

By | News, Plant Science

Seagrass meadows worldwide are facing escalating threats, according to a study. These vital ecosystems, crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity, are highly vulnerable to climate change. Urgent action, including enhanced management strategies and global cooperation, is needed to safeguard their future amidst increasing human and environmental pressures.

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Image credit: 12019 / Pixabay

Better phosphorus use can ensure its stocks last more than 500 years and boost global food production – new evidence shows

By | Agriculture, News

Efficient phosphorus use could extend its reserves over 500 years, vital for global food production amid a rising population. Current over-application, especially in Europe and North America, depletes resources and harms water quality. New research emphasizes optimizing usage, potentially saving 77 years’ worth of reserves. Collaborative policy action is crucial for sustainable phosphorus management.

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