ECG for Plants? A New Technology from SGGW

PlantECG Fluorimeter – an ECG for Plants

The PlantECG fluorimeter is the first portable Polish device developed for non-invasive measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence signals (a fluorimeter is a “stress meter”), reflecting the activity of Photosystem II (PSII) in plant chloroplasts and other photosynthetic organisms.

It enables ultra-fast (1-second) diagnostics of the plant’s physiological condition, allowing for very early detection of stress symptoms such as drought, salinity, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental pollution. Moreover, it can detect changes caused by these stress factors and others—such as infections—before they become visible to the naked eye.

“The name ‘Plant ECG’ draws an analogy to the human electrocardiogram,” explains Prof. Dr. Hab. Hazem M. Kalaji. “Just as an ECG allows assessment of heart health, PlantECG records the ‘pulse’ of plants—their physiological signals (chlorophyll fluorescence signals) resulting from photosynthesis. I was the first in the world to introduce this term, emphasizing the biological similarity and the possibility of interpreting these signals as a kind of ‘heartbeat’ of plants.”

What Makes the Device Unique

PlantECG is the simplest and smallest fluorimeter currently available worldwide. Unlike traditional, large, and expensive instruments requiring specialized software, PlantECG:

• is fully mobile and compact, providing non-invasive (non-destructive) measurements;
• performs ultra-fast (1-second) physiological assessments by analyzing 118 points on the fluorescence induction curve, with the ability to record up to 100,000 points per second (100,000/s). This high data density enables precise stressor identification using machine learning;
• makes it possible to create biological feedback systems, allowing plants to self-regulate growth conditions—both in partially controlled environments (greenhouses) and fully controlled ones (phytotrons, growth chambers);
• includes built-in sensors for temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure;
• features a visual LED indicator showing plant condition instantly: green (good), yellow (intermediate), red (poor);
• provides immediate results—measured parameters and graphical visualization appear on the screen within one second;
• can be used by scientists and non-specialists alike (farmers, students, landscape architects, artists, or even school pupils);
• requires no Internet connection, Bluetooth, or cables, connecting via Wi-Fi to any phone, tablet, or computer;
• requires no software installation, as it has a built-in system for measurement, parameter calculation, and graphical output. Data can also be stored on a free online server.

“It is the only device of this kind that combines precision, simplicity, and multifunctionality,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Hab. H.M. Kalaji.

Is Our Plant in Good Condition?

A plant’s condition can be assessed based on chlorophyll fluorescence signals recorded and analyzed by PlantECG. If the plant functions properly, the device indicates normal Photosystem II activity.

A built-in LED indicator simplifies interpretation:

• Green – good plant condition
• Yellow – intermediate condition, first symptoms of stress
• Red – poor condition, serious physiological problems

This intuitive system allows users to identify threats quickly, even without understanding complex physiological parameters, and to respond immediately—helping to prevent negative consequences, especially in the face of environmental stress and ecological challenges.

How Was the Product Developed?

The device is the result of a collaboration between Prof. Dr. Hab. Hazem M. Kalaji and MSc Ryszard Grodowski, a specialist in electronics and IT from the private sector.

Prof. Kalaji was responsible for the conceptual and scientific aspects, while MSc Grodowski developed the technical and engineering solutions. The project was made possible through close cooperation between academia (SGGW) and the private sector.

Presentations and Availability of Plant ECG

“PlantECG is currently in the production and commercialization phase,” says Prof. Dr. Hab. Hazem M. Kalaji. “It has already been publicly presented at EXPO 2025 (Osaka, Japan) and during SGGW Days 2025, and will be showcased at the Przemiany Festival at the Copernicus Science Centre (October 3–5, 2025) at the SGGW booth titled ‘Plant Clinic.’ Work is ongoing to bring the device to market for both professional and individual users.”

Scientific Consultation

Prof. Dr. Hab. Hazem M. Kalaji
Department of Botany and Plant Physiology
Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW)