ROOT SYSTEMS

ROOT ORGANIZATION Roots systems are usually either: Tap root (dicots) or Fibrous root (monocots) some plants may have both; e.g. clover

Root Anatomy (Macro) Root hairs - major site of water/nutrient absorption - located in zone of cell maturation Lateral (secondary roots) - form near but behind root hair zone - from cells of pericycle; meristematic - forms apex; pushes through endodermis, cortex, epidermis

ROOT FUNCTIONS Roots: Anchor Absorb Conduct Store

ROOT FEATURES Root Cap – covers root apex protects and lubricates secretes mucigel mucigel also aids water and nutrient absorption

Root Hairs – increase absorption develop in region of maturation extensions of epidermal cells

Primary Root – develops from radicle (embryonic root) of germinating seed... branches into: Branch (secondary) Roots – develop from the pericycle of the central root

Adventitious Roots Latin adventicius “not belonging to” arise from stems or leaves e.g. brace roots of corn ornamentals often propagated

Taproot – primary root persists and maintains dominance e.g. alfalfa, cotton, pecan often storage/food source e.g. carrot, beet, turnip

Contrast Taproot w/ Fibrous Root Refer to notes

Root Morphology Four Functional Zones: - region of maturation - region of elongation - meristematic region - root cap