plant organs: Roots Flashcards
how much of the plants total dry weight will roots make up
about one-third
what are the four vital functions of roots
absorption, anchorage, food storage, and nitrogen fixation
what do roots absorb
water and dissolved nutrients
why do roots need O2
for respiration
roots must have _____ contact with soil particles
extensive
what simple minerals do roots absorb
N, P, S, K
what other extra things will roots absorb
vitamins, hormones, and other organic substances that leached out of decaying materials
why are anchorage shoots beneficial for photosynthesis
puts the plant in a position that allows it to carry out photosynthesis effectively
what environmental conditions are roots useful for
wind, rain
plants with poorly developed roots are more susceptible too…
lodging-falling over
what are adventitious roots
roots that form from the stem instead of the root tissues
what are prop roots
roots that arise from the stem above the soil surface to provide additional support for the plant
what kinds of plants is storage really important for
biannual, perennial
why is root storage so important for biannuals and perennials
provides a means for surviving the winter and resuming growth in the spring.
why is it important to not cut plants such as alfalfa late into the year
the plant won’t be able to get all the food into the roots. this will increase the chances of a winter kill
