Things you need
to know covers all of the little things that other stores overlook -- and we
put importance to.
A
basic understanding of how plants grow and what they need for optimal growth
is crucial to both indoor and outdoor gardeners.
If you are gardening outdoors, Mother Nature handles most of a plants
needs. With hydroponic gardening, you must provide some of the plants
necessary requirements in other ways. This section will help you understand
the process of what a plant needs.
● Fruit
● Flower
● Leaf
● Phloem
● Roots
Plants are made up of eight
different parts and each part has an important function in the growing
process.
Our main concern, however, is with the leaves, roots, root hairs and the
vascular system. These are the parts of a plant that contribute to the
success of the flowers and fruits.
● Root Hairs
● Vascular System
● Xylem
»
Leaves -
Leaves are where photosynthesis takes
place and light and carbon dioxide are taken in, with oxygen released as a
by-product. On the underside of leaves, small openings called "stomata" open
and close, allowing carbon dioxide to enter and oxygen to exit.
»
Roots -
The roots anchor a plant in the ground
and absorb water, nutrients and air. Tiny root hairs increase the surface
area of the root for faster absorption. These tiny root hairs are extremely
delicate and must be kept moist at all times. Larger roots are similar to
the plants stem, as they transport water and dissolved minerals to the
plant.
»
Stems & Vascular System
(Xylem & Phloem) -
The stems are the heart of a plants
vascular system and carry water and nutrients throughout the plant. The
xylem carries water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves, and the
phloem transports food manufactured by the leaves to the stems and roots.
The stem also supports the plant and bears leaves, flowers buds, and fruits.