Creating a Realm of Rhythm

By Christine Ohtani-Chang, Creativity Network

As our vision changes in our perspective of growth by stepping outside into our gardens our senses are heightened and a question posed ; can creation of music and sound waves affect the plant’s growth? Can we create an atmosphere that stimulates growth and repair in organism, enhance photosynthesis, cellular activity and overall plant health?

Sound is a pressure wave created by vibrations through gases, liquids and solids. This frequency (Hz) and intensity (dB) and timbre identify sound waves. A study on Mung Bean (Onohinosa, 2024) growth encouraged reduced chemical use while enhancing an eco-friendly method. Plants were exposed to Baroque Botanicals- Cello Suite No.1 in G major and found to yield growth increase up 131.35% and 159.46% over a 12 week period. Plant beans were exposed  3X a day, morning, afternoon and evening  with a control group of no music played. The frequencies were: H32Hz and 528 Hz, mimicking nature and energy. Music was played at SPL (Sound pressure level) 75+5 dB/ 85+5 dB/  95+5 dB on 25 seeds.  It was discovered a variety of sound, its frequency and intensity affect plants genetically, metabolically and at a morphological level. Plants expose to sound vibrations are able to adopt to their environment, modify its growth and develop, as previously noted in Baroque Botanicals Cello Suite No.1. This is just a beginning to the perception of sound and plants and the possibilities of how it could affect agriculture and biotechnology in future industries.

So next time you walk into a Botanical Atrium filled with lush flora and fauna, use your keen sense of smell, hearing and vision but keep silent, and feel the rhythm of growth around you. Let’s continue to collaborate and create this realm of rhythm together!