Pheromone: A chemical substance released by an organism that triggers a social response in another member of the same species.
Think of pheromones as invisible messages that plants and insects use to communicate with each other. In the garden, pheromones are crucial in attracting pollinators and even defending against pests. For example, flowers release pheromones to attract bees and other pollinators, signaling they’re ready for pollination. Some plants also release pheromones when they’re under attack by pests, which can attract beneficial insects that prey on those pests.
Understanding pheromones can be a powerful tool for gardeners. Using synthetic pheromone traps, you can monitor pest populations and even disrupt their mating cycles, reducing their numbers without using harmful pesticides. Pheromones are a fascinating example of the complex communication that occurs in the natural world, and they offer a glimpse into the garden’s secret language.
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