1. ROOT SYSTEMS

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

3. 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

4. ROOT FUNCTIONS Roots: Anchor Absorb Conduct Store

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

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

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

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

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

16. Contrast Taproot w/ Fibrous Root Refer to notes

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