Final answer:
To help an injured plant avoid infection, use a sealant on cuts to prevent pathogen entry, maintain a healthy environment, use sterile techniques, and encourage natural defenses by keeping the plant healthy.
Step-by-step explanation:
To assist an injured plant avoid infection, consider the plant's first line of defense: its physical barriers, such as bark and waxy cuticle. If a plant is wounded and these barriers are compromised, pathogens could enter, leading to infection. The use of a sealant can prevent this by stopping evaporation and protecting the cut from being an entry point for pathogens.
Secondly, providing an environment that reduces the risk of infection is crucial. For instance, ensuring the plant has space to grow without excessive moisture or contact with infected plants can help. You may also use sterile techniques when handling plants, such as sterilizing tools before use. Some plants benefit from the application of a mild antiseptic or fungicide to the wounded area to prevent infection.
Finally, fostering natural defenses by maintaining overall plant health through proper nutrition, watering, and sunlight is also essential. Studies show that healthy plants are more adept at producing hormones and toxins, such as salicylic acid and jasmonate, to combat pathogens.