Did you know that plants exhibit amazing complex behaviors that go far beyond simple mechanical reactions. They respond to stimuli such as light, gravity, and touch, and can communicate with each other through chemical signals. These sophisticated biochemical responses and other adaptive behaviors are considered by some scientists as a form of problem-solving!   - Plant Wisdom  Plants have evolved to perceive their environment through various mechanisms that help them adapt to their surroundings and regulate growth and development.   - Seeing the Light  Plants sense light through photoreceptors, such as phytochromes and cryptochromes. This helps them regulate seed germination, phototropism (growth towards light), and flowering.   - Feeling the Touch  Plants can alter their growth in response to physical contact, helping them adapt to their environment and avoid obstacles.   - Sensing the Soil  Plants sense soil’s water availability and nutrient levels, an essential skill in regulating water uptake and adjusting root growth. They even sense gravity to ensure roots grow down and shoots grow up.  - Communicating with Others  Plants communicate through chemical signals. When under stress from herbivores or pathogens, they release compounds that neighboring plants can detect and use for their own safety and survival. Support Nature-based Solutions that build biodiversity, climate resilience and wellbeing in cities. 🌿 Edited by Tamsin Smith @slipstreamer11  #biodiversity #diversity #SUGi #rewild #urbanforest #ecosystemrestoration #ecosystems #biophilic #miyawakimethod #naturebasedsolutions #nature #london #uk #heatislands #spongecity #soil #dirt #pocketforest #greeninfrastructure (fb)

Two years on: growing wellbeing and connection through Nature at Ida Nason Aronica Forest, Ellensburg, Washington, USA “This forest is helping our community in many ways. Many of our students have social emotional needs that are not effectively met in a traditional classroom. Having an outdoor focus, task and place to connect with a growing forest will provide a space for students to build their social emotional skills. Having the opportunity for outdoor shared learning will allow students to make cross curricular connections with science, the environment, literacy and math.” — Joanne Duncan, Principal at Ida Nason Aronica The project has blossomed into a hub for social-emotional growth, environmental stewardship, and hands-on science learning. Students now regularly visit the forest to observe seasonal changes, study biodiversity, and explore how trees contribute to a healthier planet and community. As the forest matures, so do the students who care for it. They’ve learned not just about ecosystems, but about patience, collaboration, and resilience — lessons that grow stronger with every season. Nature continues to be a profound teacher at Ida Nason Aronica Elementary, and the pocket forest remains a lasting symbol of what can happen when learning, wellbeing, and the environment come together in harmony. Support Nature-based Solutions that build biodiversity, climate resilience and wellbeing in cities. 🌿Link in our bio 👆 SUGi Forest Maker: Ethan Bryson @naturalurbanforests With special thanks to Marylee @smunitee and her family. #SUGi #PocketForest #Biodiversity #Cities #Plant #Trees #mentalhealth #GreenSchool #Ecosystem #Restoration #Rewilding #UrbanForest #Community #NatureBasedSolutions #Adaptation #ClimateChange #NbS #GreenInfrastructure #USA #Native #Heritage #Seattle (fb)