Melodies of Growth: The Interaction Between Plants and Sound

Mario Pagano 
IRET - CNR - Italy

September 24, 2025 (11:30-12:30)
Webinar Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19:meeting_N2FjYmRmYTQtMmRiNy00Y2I5LThmNDYtNzdhY2ViOWY3Y2E3@thread.v2/0?context={"Tid":"34c64e9f-d27f-4edd-a1f0-1397f0c84f94","Oid":"c9f800b1-fb5c-40ef-8448-c7bbb3f5a393"}

Abstract: The application of sound wave technology across different plant species has demonstrated that variations in frequency (Hz), sound pressure intensity, treatment duration, and the type of sound source can significantly influence plant development [1]. Research on cotton plants exposed to Plant Acoustic Frequency Technology (PAFT) revealed improvements in several growth parameters [2]. Specifically, the treated plants showed increased height, larger size of the fourth expanded leaf from the top, more branches bearing bolls, a higher number of bolls, and greater individual boll weight. Another study found that a 4 kHz sound stimulus enhanced plants’ tolerance to drought [3]. In transgenic rice, gene expression was stimulated at 250 Hz but inhibited at 50 Hz [4]. Additionally, certain sound frequencies were shown to improve osmotic potential, with the most significant effects observed at 0.5 and 0.8 kHz compared to untreated controls. Treating paddy rice with a sound frequency of 0.4 kHz at a sound pressure level (SPL) of 106 dB significantly boosted the germination index, along with increased stem height and relative fresh weight [5]. This presentation delivers a current and comprehensive review of the literature addressing the effects of sound waves on plant physiological functions and developmental processes. It highlights the critical need for further studies to clarify the mechanisms through which acoustic stimuli influence plant behavior. Conclusively, the analysis offers a detailed synthesis of sound frequency applications, underscoring their potential to contribute meaningfully to advancements in plant science. References [1] Pagano, M. Effetti Di Onde Sonore a Diverse Frequenze Sulla Crescita e La Fisiologia Delle Piante; Aracne Editrice: Rome, Italy, 2020; ISBN 978-88-255-3347-7. [2] Hassanien, R.H.; Hou, T.; Li, Y.; Li, B. Advances in Effects of Sound Waves on Plants. J. Integr. Agric. 2014, 13, 335-348. [3] Pagano, M.; Del Prete, S. Symphonies of Growth: Unveiling the Impact of Sound Waves on Plant Physiology and Productivity. Biology. 2024, 13, 326. [4] Jeong, M.-J.; Shim, C.-K.; Lee, J.-O.; Kwon, H.-B.; Kim, Y.-H.; Lee, S.-K.; Byun, M.-O.; Park, S.-C. Plant Gene Responses to Frequency-Specific Sound Signals. Mol. Breed. 2008, 21, 217-226. [5] Hassanien, R.H.; Hou, T.; Li, Y.; Li, B. Advances in Effects of Sound Waves on Plants. J. Integr. Agric. 2014, 13, 335-348

Author's Info: https://www.iret.cnr.it/dettaglio-personale/?user_id=244