This lesson introduces students to the concept of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by plants, and their relevance in detecting plant stress and potential diseases. Students will use a custom drone equipped with sensors to monitor VOC emissions from horticultural crops onions and spinach grown in raised beds. The lesson emphasizes hands-on experience with drone flight, environmental monitoring, data collection, and interpretation. Students will learn to relate VOC levels to plant health indicators, such as growth rate, leaf color, and signs of stress. They will also explore environmental factors that influence VOC emissions, including temperature, humidity, and UV exposure. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to collect VOC data, interpret it, and discuss its implications for sustainable crop management.
