New patch quickly detects plant stress to reduce loss

Researchers have developed a new device that helps farmers prevent crop loss. This innovative tool, called a biohydrogel-enabled microneedle sensor, can quickly measure plant stress in less than a minute and costs less than a dollar per test. Plants can suffer from various environmental stresses that lead to disease and damage. To combat this, the researchers created a wearable patch for plants. This patch can quickly sense when a plant is under stress and inform the grower. The sensor attaches tiny spikes to the leaves of plants and monitors hydrogen peroxide levels. This chemical is a sign of stress in plants and is responsible for leaf wilting and discoloration. By detecting stress early, farmers can take action to protect their crops, potentially increasing yields even in tough conditions. This new method simplifies the process of detecting hydrogen peroxide. Current methods are complicated and involve removing parts of the plant and using external equipment to check for changes. This new approach promises to be more efficient and user-friendly for farmers.