We can learn from plants when it comes to neighbourly behaviour

In hostile conditions, plants can adapt so as not to shade their neighbours. Photo: AFP

Whether you live in the city or in the country, it's hard to escape interactions with neighbours. From chatting to lending a hand, everyone has their own little ways of gaining the privileged status of the "good neighbour".

Now, British researchers suggest that it could be worth taking a leaf from plants when it comes to neighbourly behaviour in times of stress.