The Effect of Near-Infrared Radiation on Plants

See t.ly/lqjm — Look at any textbook on botany and you will find this maxim: plants respond to optical radiation in the spectral range of 280 nm to 800 nm. Period, end of discussion.. The question is, how was this spectral range (sometimes referred to as Photobiologically Active Radiation, or PBAR) determined? This question addresses issues beyond mere academic curiosity. Recent studies, both in the laboratory and in the field, have shown that ultraviolet-C radiation – optical radiation with wavelengths shorter than 280 nm – offers significant economic benefits for horticultural applications. The effects and potential economic benefits of…