Green Leaf Volatiles

When you cut grass, the grass sends out this chemical that is basically a distress signal. The grass is calling out help to any insects out there that may be beneficial to hurt grass.

While I have no idea what kind of insect would do such a thing, scientists are given billions of dollars to figure this sort of thing out.

The Smelle

Just about everybody who isn't allergic to grass, always seems to love the smell. That fresh smell, in the early spring, when you have just finished manicuring your lawn? Wow, what a good smell.

That's the chemical.

IRC Explains

<@FED> the suffering makes the grass smell nicer
<@FED> like fois gras
<@FED> or veal

Buncha Science

• Plants send SOS signal to insects
• Green Leaf Volatiles: A Plant’s Multifunctional Weapon against Herbivores and Pathogens