The Effect of Second-Hand Smoke on Plants

Second-hand smoke can negatively effect plant growth.

Second-hand smoke has been clearly linked to health problems in humans, but there has only been limited research on how smoking effects plants. The multitude of chemicals in second-hand smoke can cause growth problems in plants.

Chemical Pollutants

Second-hand smoke is filled with harmful chemicals that can seriously harm any living animal or plant. The chemicals ethylene, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are the most dangerous and could harm plant growth.

Theories/Speculation

According to the Jr. Science website, student research into the effect of second-hand smoke on plants has led to the theory that the chemicals in cigarette smoke suffocate plants. Plants begin to absorb toxins instead of carbon dioxide and sunlight.

Expert Insight

Cynthia Galloway, faculty botany professor at Texas A&M, believes particulate matter from second hand smoke can also be detrimental to plants. Galloway states that particulates can clog the stomatal pores on leaves. This would reduce gas exchange and hinder photosynthesis.

Considerations

Although most chemicals found in second-hand smoke are detrimental to plant growth, it is important to note that second-hand smoke also contains carbon dioxide which is necessary for photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide from cigarette smoke could be beneficial to plants as it aids in their growth process, but the positive effects would most likely be dwarfed by the negative effects of second-hand smoke.

References

• Mad Sci. Network: Does smoke have any affect on plantlife?: Forum post by David Hershey
• Jr. Science: The Smokey Situation
• Mad Sci. Network: How Does Cigarette Smoke Affect Plants?: Forum post by Cynthia Galloway

Resources

• "Plant Physiology"; Green Plants and Clean Indoor Air; L. Taiz; 1991