What is secondary growth?
Secondary growth is a process of plant development that occurs after the primary growth phase. It involves an increase in the thickness of stems and roots, leading to an increase in diameter. Unlike primary growth, which is driven by the activity of the apical meristem at the tips of stems and roots, secondary growth is primarily driven by the activity of the vascular cambium and cork cambium.
The vascular cambium is a layer of cells located between the xylem and phloem in the stems and roots of plants. It is responsible for producing new xylem and phloem cells, which contribute to the increase in diameter of the plant. The cork cambium, on the other hand, is a layer of cells located just below the epidermis of the stems and roots. It produces cork cells, which provide protection to the plant and contribute to the formation of the bark.
Secondary growth is a crucial process for plants, as it allows them to adapt to their environment and increase their structural support. It is particularly important in trees, which rely on secondary growth to support their height and width. In this article, we will explore the mechanisms behind secondary growth, its significance in plant development, and its role in the growth of trees and other plants.
In the following paragraphs, we will delve deeper into the various aspects of secondary growth, including its cellular and molecular mechanisms, its impact on plant architecture, and its practical applications in agriculture and forestry.
