1. Plant Reproduction

2. Asexual Reproduction
A type of reproduction that only involves one parent
Offspring are genetically identical to the parent because the parent is making exact copies of itself
Does not involve the fusion of sex cells (gametes)

3. Sexual Reproduction
Involves the union of reproductive cells (gametes) from two different parents, called fertilization and results in the formation of a zygote
The union of the two gametes is called fertilization
Offspring are genetically unique from either parent

4. Asexual Reproduction:
Pros
Cons
Increased growth rate
Doesn’t require a mate
Localized use of space around parent plant
Quicker process, less energy required
Less genetic variability
Less long distance dispersal
Vulnerable to disturbance
Slows evolution

5. Vegetative Reproduction
Results in new plant individuals without the production of seed or spores
Runners (stolons): Horizontal stems that run above ground and create a new plant at regular intervals
Rhizomes: Similar to runners but they are found below the surface of the ground
Tubers or Bulbs: the energy stores of an old plant can be used to grow new individuals

7. Artificial Methods of Asexual Reproduction
Grafting: Plant has stem, leaf, or root cut off and grafted onto an existing plant to create a new individual
Cutting: Placing a cutting of a plant in water which will eventually develop into a new plant
Layering: a stem attached to the plant is bent and covered with soil. Eventually, roots will develop and extend from the stem into the soil.
Micro-propagation: Propagating a large number of plants from a single plant in a short time under laboratory conditions.

9. Sexual reproduction: Pros Cons
Genetic recombination means variation from plant to plant
Allows for evolution
Offspring are mobile (wind and animal dispersal)
Recombination can disrupt successful adaptations
Huge amount of energy required to make flowering structures
Requires more time
Reliance on Pollination

10. Non-Flowering Plants (Conifers)