Ecology

Biology

Terrestrial plant

Soil biology

Plant community

Soil water

Microplastics

Terrestrial ecosystem

Environmental science

Biota

Ecosystem

Species richness

New Phytologist

Microplastic effects in terrestrial ecosystems have recently moved into focus, after about a decade of research being limited to aquatic systems. While effects on soil physical properties and soil biota are starting to become apparent, there is not much information on the consequences for plant performance. We here propose and discuss mechanistic pathways through which microplastics could impact plant growth, either positively or negatively. These effects will vary as a function of plant species, and plastic type, and thus are likely to translate to changes in plant community composition and perhaps primary production. Our mechanistic framework serves to guide ongoing and future research on this important topic.

Microplastic effects on plants