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Can Genetic Engineering Make Annuals Become Perennials?

January 1, 2024

I am absolutely fascinated by an article I recently read on Landscapeonline.com about research to make annuals become perennials.

Arabidopsis thaliana - white flower plant
Arabidopsis thaliana has been used in most of the scientific studies. – Image: Arabidopsis thaliana by CC

Researchers have found that only two genes, which are associated with flowering, control the development of perennial growth.  Altering these two genes, they have been able to make annual plants into perennial plants.  

Of course, there are side effects (you can’t get something for nothing)…plants tend not to flower, or they flower much later after going through the change. So, for now, to get our fix of bright splashes of color, we will still have to shell every spring and summer.

(These are mostly hard science papers geared for researchers):

Can Annuals Become Perennials? – The Scientific Research:

More Posts about Interesting Plant science from PITH + VIGOR:

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  1. Wow that’s amazing! I have a feeling we’re on the cusp of seeing a lot of the preconceptions we held as gospel being dispelled. Can’t wait to hear more!

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