The Root System.

This section of the plant has 4 functions:  anchor the plant, absorb water and minerals, conduct water and minerals, and store food.  Note that the only places where absorption of nutrients can occur in the root system are at the root tips where many root hairs increase rate of absorption.

Monocot Root System.

This type of root includes grasses, palms, and bamboo.  The root system of grasses are like a mat of interwoven threadlike roots spread out below the surface.  The only difference between grass roots and those of palm and bamboo is size: palm and bamboo roots are ropelike instead of threadlike.  Such a fibrous system allows for a large area of the plant to actively participate in the uptake of nutrients.  The shear number of tiny roots allows the plant to be strongly anchored in the soil.

Dicot Root System.

The taproot is the long main root that is orthogonal (three dimensionally perpendicular) to the surface.  A dandelion's roots are an example of a dicot system.  Carrots, beets and turnips are examlples of taproots modified to store large amounts of food.  Since plants use these reserves to bud and flower, so-called "root crops" are harvested before the flowering period begins.

Adventitious Roots.

An adventitious root is any plant root that is growing at an unusual location like above the ground for a secondary purpose.  This secondary purpose is often for structural support of the plant.

Next:  "The Shoot System."