Avoiding Plant Stress

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Just as with humans, any factor whether external or internal that affects a plant is known as a stressor. The stressor can be beneficial or harmful or both. For example, rhinovirus causes the common cold in humans which can be harmful if a secondary infection sets in. At the same time the common cold helps to strengthen the immune system which is beneficial. The same is true in plants. However, when we talk of stress it is usually in a negative way, referring to any factor that is harmful.

How a plant responds to adverse stressors depends on the health and type of plant. The effects of plant stress range from minor to severe and may even result in the death of the plant. If corrected early enough the plant may recover fully or it may be weakened. A stressed plant is not a healthy plant making them more susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

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