Contrary to the long-held belief that plants in the natural world are always in competition, new research has found that in harsh environments mature plants help smaller ones - and thrive as a result.
Scientists at the University of Oxford reveal that the sweet potato and its storage root originated at least 2 million years ago — that is, not only before agriculture but also long before modern humans appeared on Earth. The scientists'…
Researchers have revealed the role of genes in controlling flowering time in the Brassica rapa family. They demonstrated that a higher level of FLC gene expression is essential for inhibiting flowering in the absence of a cold period and also discovered that the rate…
Although nitrogen is essential for all living organisms — it makes up 3% of the human body — and comprises 78% of Earth’s atmosphere, it’s almost ironically difficult for plants and natural systems to access it. Atmospheric nitrogen is not directly…
Quinoa is a healthy food many know and love. As its popularity grows, more farmers are interested in planting it. However, the plant doesn’t do well in high temperatures, so plant breeders are trying to help.