Introduction

For a plant to grow and thrive, it needs a variety of essential resources, including water and minerals. These resources are essential for several physiological functions related to growth and development, and a lack of them can result in stunted growth and even death. In this article, we will explore what supplies water and minerals to a typical plant.

Water Supply

Water is fundamental for plant growth as it is required for photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and transport. Over 90% of a plant's dry weight is comprised of water, and it is estimated that a mature plant requires around 200-1000 liters of water to grow into its full size.

One of the significant sources of water for the plant is the roots. The root system, which is made up of root hairs, root caps, and cortex, absorbs water and minerals from the soil. The movement of water into the roots is a result of osmosis, which is the diffusion of water from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. The water then moves up the stem through a process known as transpiration.

Transpiration is the process by which plants lose water through their leaves. It is critical for transporting water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. During this process, the water molecules evaporate from the leaves and create a negative pressure, which pulls more water up to replace the lost water.

Another source of water for plants is rainfall. Rainfall provides the necessary water supply to the plants, and it is particularly important in times of drought when the plant's access to groundwater is limited.

Mineral Supply

Like water, minerals are an essential requirement for plant growth. They are necessary for several physiological functions, such as cell wall development, nutrient absorption, photosynthesis, and metabolic activity. Unlike water, however, plants do not produce their own minerals, and they must obtain them from external sources.

The primary source of minerals for plants is the soil. Plants obtain minerals in the form of dissolved ions, which are absorbed through the root system. The concentration of minerals in the soil is one of the factors that determine how well a plant can grow, and it is often indicated by the soil's pH level.

Minerals are essential, but they can be harmful if they are present in excessive amounts. For this reason, plants have a mechanism for regulating their uptake of minerals. The mechanism is called ion selective uptake, and it allows the plant to control which minerals it absorbs and in what quantities.

Conclusion

Water and mineral supply are essential for the growth and development of plants. Plants receive their water from roots and transpiration and get their minerals from the soil. Understanding how plants obtain these resources is essential for effective plant growth and management.