Ep 2. The Power of Flowers

The Power of Flowers, the second episode of season 1 of How to Grow a Planet, explores the colorful world of flowers and the important role they play in the planetary ecosystem. Hosted by biologist and botanist Iain Stewart, the episode takes the viewers on a breathtaking journey to different parts of the world, explaining why and how flowers turned out to be one of the most critical evolutionary adaptations of plants.

Stewart starts by explaining that flowers are not just aesthetically pleasing but serve as the most efficient way of attracting pollinators, which include bees, butterflies, birds, and other insects. He further delves into the specific strategies that flowers use to lure these creatures, from mimicking the smell of female insects to displaying vibrant colors to catch their attention. The episode explores different flower types, such as the orchids which use a specialized lip to trap bees and release them only after transferring pollen, to the nocturnal cacti that bloom once a year for just one night.

The focus shifts to the evolutionary significance of flowers, with Stewart explaining how they enabled plants to colonize various parts of the planet. Flowers evolved, he explains, as a result of complex relationships between plants and animals over millions of years. They played a crucial role in the evolution of insects by providing them with food, shelter, and mating opportunities. Furthermore, flowers allowed plants to fertilize themselves rather than depending on the wind to do so.

The episode provides insights into the many uses of flowers beyond their ornamental value. Stewart takes us to the Amazon rainforest to witness how the Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogenic plant used in traditional medicine, depends on specific flowers to produce its active compounds. In Japan, we learn how cherry blossom season is celebrated as part of the cultural heritage, and how it inspires contemporary artists and designers. Flowers have a profound psychological effect on humans, as we see in the romantic way they are used in life events, such as weddings.

Stewart concludes the episode by highlighting the challenges faced by flowers today, primarily due to loss of habitat and the disappearance of pollinating insects due to the climate crisis. The episode aims to create an awareness of the importance of flowers in the ecosystem by showcasing their role in the planet's evolution and the consequences of their extinction. The Power of Flowers is a visually stunning and informative episode that will inspire viewers to appreciate the significance of these breathtaking natural wonders.