Plant growth involves a combination of cell division, elongation, and differentiation. It is a complex biological process driven by genetics and environmental factors.
Briefly, plant growth occurs via germination, cell division, cell elongation, cell differentiation, organ formation, photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, environmental factors, growth homes, and secondary growth in woody plants.
During germination, seeds absorb water and swell up causing a trigger in its metabolic activity. This leads to the activation of specific enzymes or proteins that initiate growth. Then the embryo inside the seed begins to develop and pushes out a shoot also known as a stem and a root.
As cell division takes place, the plant’s meristem divides rapidly to produce more cells. The meristem is a tissue found at the tips of roots, stems, and developing leaves and it is the region where cell division actively takes place.
Once the cells are produced, they then begin to elongate, and this is what leads to the increase in length of roots, stems, and leaves that reach towards the light source whether it is the sun or grow lights.
As cells continue to divide and elongate, they start to differentiate into various cell types with specific functions. Hence, various types of tissues can form. For example, vascular tissue develops to transport water and essential nutrients to various parts of the plant.
Then further specialized tissues and organs are formed to help the plant grow more. Roots for anchoring and absorbing water and nutrients begin to form. Stems further develop for support, more leaves grow for photosynthesis, and even flowers grow for reproduction.
Furthermore, environmental factors like light, temperature, humidity, and available nutrients have an influence over plant growth. Growth hormones such as auxins, cytokinins, gibberellins, and abscisic acid are constantly being produced by plants to regulate growth and development.
Throughout the whole growth process, plants continuously adapt to their environment to ensure survival and reproduction. As you can see, plant growth is a highly complex process that involves both genetics and the environment.