Many of us know camouflage is the adaptation of many animals used to protect themselves from enemies. They hide by matching themselves to their background . Thus by deceiving their predator , they increase their chances of survival. Amazing.
Even more interesting , camouflage in plants. A thing may be new to many of us, but as a gardener, it is in my daily observation. How weeds increase their chances of survival by growing among those plants that look like them. The proof , I will share with you in some other post.
Right now I am surprised how a zucchini plant is dodging me to protect its fruit from picking. I used word” fruit” because, botanically speaking , fruit is the ripened ovary ( female par)t of a flower. Zucchini squash Plants, spread like crazy. I pick them when they are tender. But some of these guys disguise and blend so well to their surrounding that I can barely see them and they are saved. Well, there is some frustation , but still contended, after all I need seeds to produce these tasteful , tender, homegrown vegetables next season.
So next time your squash is saved from picking at right tender stage, Don’t say I forgot, just blame on Camouflage.
Peace be upon us.