Root system

A plant’s network of roots anchors it in the soil and absorbs water and mineral nutrients. It can also store carbohydrates and other resources.

Root: A plant organ that typically grows below ground, anchoring the plant and absorbing water and minerals. The root is the basic organ from which this network is built.
Root apical meristem: A region of dividing cells near a root tip that produces cells for root growth. It generates the cells that extend roots through the soil.
Deep rooting: The growth of roots into deep soil layers, where water may remain available during surface drought. Deep roots can help plants maintain water uptake during drought.
Taproot system: A root-system form dominated by one main root that grows downward and bears smaller lateral roots. It contrasts with systems made mostly of similarly sized roots.
Primary root: The first root to develop from a seed’s embryonic root, often growing downward as the main axis. It forms the central axis in many root systems.
Gravitropism: Directional growth of an organism in response to gravity. Gravity sensing helps orient primary roots downward.
Root architecture: The spatial arrangement of a plant’s roots, including their angles, depths, and branching patterns. Its traits guide crop breeding for resource capture and anchorage.
Fibrous root system: A root-system form with many similarly sized roots, commonly arising from the base of a stem. Its dense, shallow network differs from a dominant taproot.
Lateral root: A root that branches from another root and increases the plant’s access to soil. Its branching pattern expands the network’s reach.
Auxin: A class of plant hormones that regulates growth and development, including root patterning. Auxin distribution helps regulate root growth and branching.

Linked from 18 pages