Spring Is In The Air … And Summer Is Sure To Follow

And what is that scent after an early Summer rain?

Short answer:  the scientists call it Petrichor.  The internet definition: a pleasant smell that frequently accompanies the first rain after a long period of warm, dry weather….and there’s a much more interesting, albeit a bit longer, answer.

Rain is one of the most beautiful, and oftentimes romantic gifts bestowed on us by nature.   Almost everyone loves the rainy season, especially the first rain of the summer season.  The sight of raindrops falling is truly beautiful (Singing in the rain, anyone?), and it’s matched by the beautiful ‘smell’ of that rain when it first hits the ground.

Yes, the smell that makes us poetic and romantic seems to come from rain striking fresh soil. City and country dwellers alike are familiar with this smell—and if you work with soil…you no doubt look forward to this seasonal delight! But why does that particular rain smell so wonderful? Water itself does not have any smell, so what’s the secret behind this beautiful smell?

The scent is caused by two things:

1) Bacteria: Soil-dwelling bacteria produce spores in the dry soil. When rain falls on these spores, it displaces them. The moist air carries these spores, so we’re able to smell them.  Imagine the wonderful smell is created by the “mating” of rain and bacteria!

2) Plants: Certain plants and trees release oil that gets collected on soil and rocks. The rain causes this oil to be displaced in the air, and that sweet smell is also carried to our willing noses.

Perfumers and others in the “scent” industries have tried in vain to duplicate what nature gives us for free.  So, I guess it stands to reason, that we cannot only fool Mother Nature, but we can’t duplicate her either!