Not only animals and humans can heal themselves - plants can also heal their wounds when damaged.
When a plant is strong enough to survive the damage, it creates callus - a special patch that helps its healing.
Let's find out more about it and why it's great.
What is it?
In gardening, a callus is like a tough, protective patch that forms on the end of a plant cutting or a piece of a plant when it's cut or injured.
It's similar to how our skin forms a scab when we get a cut to protect the wound.
Calluses are important in gardening for a few reasons.
Root Development
When you're trying to grow new plants from cuttings, like a piece of a stem or a leaf, the callus helps protect the cut area and encourage roots to grow from that spot.
Think of it as a kind of plant bandage that helps the plant heal and grow roots.
Prevents Infection
Just like a scab on our skin keeps germs out, a callus on a plant helps prevent diseases or harmful microorganisms from getting into the wounded area.
It acts as a barrier to keep the plant healthy.
Supports Growth
Once the callus forms and roots start growing, it provides stability and support to the new plant as it establishes itself in the soil.
This helps the plant stand up and grow strong.
Conclusion
So, in gardening, a callus is like a natural protective shield that plants create when they're injured or cut.
It's essential because it aids in root development, protects against infections, and supports the growth of new plants.
