Plants have various defense mechanisms to protect themselves against pathogens. One of the main ways is through their immune system, which includes physical barriers like cell walls, as well as chemical defenses such as producing antimicrobial compounds. Plants also have the ability to recognize pathogens through receptors on their cell surfaces, triggering defense responses like producing toxic chemicals or activating their immune response pathways. Additionally, some plants form symbiotic relationships with beneficial microbes that help protect them from harmful pathogens.