Air pollution hampers fruit & vegetable growth up to 50%

New Delhi: Air pollution is not only dangerous for human beings but also equally harmful to flowers and plants in many serious ways. Attention is given to the fact that ‘poor’ air quality has put people’s health at risk. Diseases like respiratory and lung infections are increasing due to bad air. However, food safety is essential for survival. ‘Poor’ air quality hits the plants and flowers we eat. Experts believe that due to the effect of poor air, crops halt fruit and vegetable growth, even up to 50% less.

Toxic chemicals in the air damage tiny pores on leaves called stomata. These pores help plants “breathe” and do photosynthesis, which is how they make food and grow. When these pores don’t work well, plants can’t grow properly. The ozone hole is getting bigger amid air pollution; therefore, more ultraviolet (UV) rays are reaching the earth. Its strong light is dangerous to ruin plants and slow down the growth rate.

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Pollution doesn’t only come from the air. Toxic particles from pollution fall to the ground and mix with the soil. Plants take in these harmful chemicals through their roots, which causes even more damage. This can lead to poor crop quality and smaller harvests.

Plants that grow near busy roads or in polluted areas often bloom much later. That’s because they’re using all their energy to survive the pollution instead of growing flowers. Some sensitive plants may not flower at all if the air is too dirty.

Soil is gradually turning more acidic due to high pollution. Acidic soil is not conducive for plants because of too much aluminum. Spoiled roots can’t absorb water and nutrients, which makes it difficult for the plants to survive in these poisonous conditions.