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Wearable Plant Patch Revolutionizes Agricultural Monitoring

This innovative patch could transform agriculture. It detects plant stress and diseases in real-time, promising higher yields and sustainability.

In this picture in the center frame on the wall and there is some text written on the board. Behind...
In this picture in the center frame on the wall and there is some text written on the board. Behind the wall there are plants.

Wearable Plant Patch Revolutionizes Agricultural Monitoring

Scientists at North Carolina State University have created a groundbreaking wearable patch for plants. This innovation allows for continuous monitoring of diseases and stress, marking a significant advancement in agricultural technology.

The prototype patch can detect a staggering 13 different plant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with remarkable accuracy. This customization enables it to identify various stresses and diseases, providing a tailored response to plant needs.

The device can swiftly detect physical damage to plants within just one to three hours. It can also identify P. infestans infection within three to four days, a significant improvement over current lab testing methods that offer only a single measurement with a time lag.

Future iterations of the patch aim to be solar powered and capable of wireless data transfer, making it a sustainable and practical solution for growers. The materials used are relatively low cost, ensuring affordability for widespread use.

The wearable plant patch, detailed in the journal Matter, represents a significant leap forward in plant health monitoring. It offers real-time, non-invasive detection of plant stress and disease, promising to enhance crop yields and sustainability in agriculture.

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