Meristemipäätteet

Meristemipäätteet, or meristems, are undifferentiated plant tissues responsible for growth. These specialized areas consist of actively dividing cells that produce new shoots, roots, and leaves. Plant growth in length primarily occurs at the apical meristems, located at the tips of roots and shoots. These primary meristems are responsible for the plant's initial elongation.

Secondary growth, which leads to an increase in girth or diameter, is managed by lateral meristems. The vascular cambium and cork cambium are examples of lateral meristems. The vascular cambium produces secondary xylem (wood) and secondary phloem (bark components), while the cork cambium produces cork, a protective outer layer.

Meristems can be found throughout a plant's life cycle, ensuring continuous development and regeneration. Their presence allows plants to adapt to their environment by growing towards resources like light and water, or by repairing damage. The study of meristems is fundamental to understanding plant morphology and development.