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In today’s news, Netherlands extends asylum protection for Afghan women and girls. Pollution threatens vital water resources for communities in São Paulo, Brazil, vegan diets offer wellness and vitality during menopause in US, secure network in Spain supports families by providing free calling services for children, volunteers in California, USA, celebrate 30 years of protecting local waterway, innovative high-protein vegan ramen from UK offers convenient, nutritional meals, and quick-thinking puppy saves her caregiver from early morning house fire in New Zealand. Here is a neat tip. Did you know that plants can sense and respond to physical contact? This phenomenon is known as thigmotropism. Plants also react to physical movement such as brushing and handling, which is called thigmomorphogenesis. This triggers the production of the plant compound ethylene and increased ethylene levels decrease stem elongation, leading to shorter and more compact growth. Natural forces such as wind provide regular physical stimulation. As a result, plants growing in exposed locations often develop stronger, stockier stems that are better able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Therefore, when you are staking a newly planted tree, it is best to use a short stake that allows some movement because gentle flexing in the wind encourages the tree to respond to its environment and develop a stronger trunk and root system. Gently brushing or “tickling” indoor seedlings can help prevent etiolation – the weak, stretched growth that occurs when plants do not receive enough light – and can encourage stronger stem development. Similarly, placing a fan near seedlings can mimic the effects of outdoor breezes, providing the touch stimulus needed to promote sturdier, healthier growth.
