Primary growth

Definition

Primary growth is the process by which a plant increases in length, allowing roots and shoots to extend. It occurs through the activity of apical meristems located at the tips of roots and shoots.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Primary growth allows plants to grow taller and deeper, enabling them to access light and water.
2. It is facilitated by cells in the apical meristems rapidly dividing and differentiating.
3. Primary growth results in the formation of primary tissues such as epidermis, cortex, and primary vascular tissues.
4. The regions experiencing primary growth are known as zones of cell division, elongation, and differentiation.
5. In stems, primary growth leads to the development of structures like leaves and flowers.

Review Questions

• What role do apical meristems play in primary growth?
• Name three types of tissues produced during primary growth.
• How does primary growth differ from secondary growth?

Related terms

Apical Meristem:

A region at the tip of a plant root or shoot where cells are actively dividing for primary growth.

Secondary Growth: The process by which a plant increases in girth through the activity of lateral meristems.

Vascular Cambium: A lateral meristem that produces secondary xylem (wood) and secondary phloem (inner bark) contributing to secondary growth.