Tammy Mulchi: Can plants solve problems? IALR raises question

None of us have considered the possibility that plants could think. However, when Governor Youngkin visited Danville recently, he toured the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and was introduced to the possibility that plants could think and solve problems on a very elemental level. As he toured the laboratory, he was shown a video showing this was possible.

Using high-resolution time-lapse cameras, the researchers focused on the plants and recorded one with tendrils trying to grasp something to climb a pole. After several attempts clockwise, the plant appears to have become frustrated, and its once vibrant green leaves have turned yellow. The cameras showed, much to the researchers’ surprise, that the tendrils reversed direction and started to reach out counterclockwise. After a few tries, it found something onto which to attach. Quickly, the plant again recovered a healthy color.

IALR Offers Niche in Plant Research

IALR has found fame in doing all types of quality research, particularly for agricultural producers and small and large corporations. One of their first research projects on plants was requested for a greenhouse operation. The business was concerned because a high percentage of the mums were not up to their customers’ tastes. They focused on how to produce seeds more consistently with better quality flowers to prevent wasting space and planting costs. They focus on manipulating the genes. They were consistently able to have straight stems and the most popular colors. One of the offshoots of that research was the creation of mums in the Virginia Tech colors.

Since that time, much research has been done on plant diseases and the best elements needed for the optimum growth of healthy food.

World Renowned

IALR has built a reputation for its leadership quality in the world of agriculture research. It has closely worked with Aero Farms on various research projects. Aero Farms is known nationally for growing tasty greens quickly. With research being done on a continuing basis, the Institute works more efficiently, even faster, and with less waste of nutrients.

National and regional companies are more frequently turning to help from IALR’s research because of the quality of their work. One of the stumbling blocks for modern farming is the cost of doing business. A major consideration is the cost of nutrients.

This, along with the costs of fertilizer, labor, and fuel, has become a roadblock to growers continuing operation. Therefore, companies need research into what is possible in the twenty-first century. IALR has yeoman’s work focused on how to harness those elements most effectively currently in the soil—likewise, reducing those elements that impede growth. These tests give our farmers hope for the future.

Recently, one company asked a researcher at the Institute to investigate if those elements that impede plant growth can be used to reduce the dependency on herbicides such as Roundup.

There are far more research programs going on that I can mention here. They have an amazing group doing this exciting work.

Working with candy

Another recent example of a company coming to IALR is a major chocolate candy manufacturer that requested research on a natural sweetener that is far sweeter than sugar.

The research being done at the Institute is putting Danville on the map for agricultural producers. Recently, in Denmark, Virginia was referred to as America’s leader in research in the agriculture realm.  IALR was the major reason for recognition! To learn more about the Institute, visit their website at https://www.ialr.org/about-us/

My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at senatormulchi@senate.virginia.gov

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