[Emerald U.]

A Plant's Distress Signal​

That fresh-cut grass smell isn’t what you think it is…

Image source: Digital Buggu/Pexels

Turns out, the scent we associate with a freshly mowed lawn is actually a distress call. When grass is cut, it releases chemicals called GLVs (green leaf volatiles)—a plant's version of a warning siren. These airborne signals help nearby plants prepare for danger and can even summon helpful insects like ladybugs to fight off pests.

What we perceive as a nostalgic summer scent is really the grass’s way of saying, “I’m under attack—help incoming.” Fascinating, and just a little bittersweet.

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[Gayle B.]

Wow! I had no idea that this wonderful smell was from a negative thing of cutting the grass!
In North Dakota my husband and I lived out in the country alongside a highway. It was only 7 acres but it was my pleasure to get on our lawn tractor and get down to work. I got so excited waiting for the grass to grow enough to need to be mowed! I’m weird but I know what I like!