By Naeemah Abdulrahman Busari
Plants do not sleep in the same way humans and animals do because they do not have brains or nervous systems. However, they do experience regular cycles of activity and rest that are closely linked to day and night. This natural pattern helps plants grow, conserve energy, and survive in their environment.
These daily patterns are known as circadian rhythms. During the daytime, plants are highly active. They spread out their leaves and turn towards the sun to absorb light. This light is used in a process called photosynthesis, through which plants make their own food. This is the period when plants grow, produce energy, and perform most of their important life processes.
At night, when sunlight is no longer available, plants reduce their activities. Many plants enter a resting phase. Some leaves fold or droop, and certain flowers close their petals. For example, the prayer plant folds its leaves at night, while flowers like tulips and daisies close in the evening and reopen in the morning. These movements are not random; they help the plants conserve water and protect delicate parts from cold or pests.
Even though plants do not sleep, their “rest” period is very important. At night, plants focus on repair, growth, and preparation for the next day. They use the energy stored during the day to carry out internal processes that keep them healthy.
In conclusion, plants do not truly sleep, but they follow a natural day-and-night rhythm. This rhythm allows them to balance activity and rest, making them more efficient and better adapted to their environment
Naeemah Abdulrahman Busari is a JSS2 student of I Scholars International Academy Gwarinpa, Abuja