wortels

Wortels are plant organs that form the root system, usually located underground. They anchor the plant and absorb water and minerals from the soil. In Dutch, wortel also refers to the carrot, a cultivated storage root; in botany the term covers roots in general.

Anatomy: A mature root has a root cap at the tip, protecting the growing tissue. Just behind it are the meristem, elongation zone, and maturation zone. Root hairs increase surface area for absorption. The vascular system typically consists of xylem and phloem; in many plants lateral roots branch from the primary root. Some species also form woody roots with secondary thickening.

Types: Root systems are either taproot, with a dominant central root and lateral branches (as in carrots), or fibrous, with many fine roots. Adventitious roots can arise from non-root tissues. Growth is influenced by gravity, moisture, nutrients, and soil texture.

Functions and ecology: Roots uptake water and minerals; they store carbohydrates in some species as storage roots. They form associations with mycorrhizal fungi, enhancing nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus; legumes may host nitrogen-fixing bacteria in root nodules. Roots contribute to soil structure and carbon storage.

Cultivation and uses: Crops like carrots rely on storage roots for harvest; other roots serve structural or ecological roles. Root health is affected by diseases such as root rot and pests; management includes crop rotation and proper watering.