5 Surprising Ways Plants Taste Their World (Plus 22 Species That Do It Best)

17. Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

Barley roots are adept at “tasting” the salt content in surrounding soils.
When they detect high concentrations, they adjust root growth patterns to steer clear of saline patches, minimizing salt-induced stress and damage.
This sensory skill helps barley survive and yield well in challenging, salty environments. Read more