Root Investigation

What are the parts of a root and why are they important for plant growth and survival? Make observations about the parts and features of roots and make inferences about how roots help plants grow and survive. 

Materials 

• Various plants to uproot 

• Root vegetables 

• Planter box with removable side (optional) 

• Plants with aerial roots like orchids (optional) 

• Magnifying glass (optional) 

• Access to a garden (or similar space) (optional

Observation Ideas 

• Pull up a weed or grass shoot to view the roots. With the naked eye, observe the structures in the root branches, including the sizes and directions they grow in and the depth and breadth of the roots. Use a magnifying glass to observe the smallest root structures. 

• With the naked eye, look at the above-ground roots of a tree and observe the size, direction, and branching structures. 

• Look for plants with aerial roots (roots that begin their growth above the ground, like on orchids, philodendrons, dragon fruit) or buttress roots (roots that grow partially above the ground to support a tree). Many large trees, like oaks, have buttress roots. Observe the size, direction, and differences between the roots and stem structures. 

• Observe some root vegetables such as beets, carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. Observe the shape. Use a magnifying glass to observe any branches from the main taproot structure and the texture. 

Discussion Ideas  

• Roots help provide structure to the plant and anchor the plant while also helping to transport water and nutrients. Look closely at the stems and leaves of a plant. Make predictions about the plant’s root structure based on your observations and your knowledge about what plants need. Use your fingers to show what direction you think the roots will go. 

• What patterns do you notice in the root structures? Create a drawing that replicates this pattern. Have you seen this pattern before? 

• Examine the above-ground roots of several different plants and make a prediction as to how these roots provide structure and transport nutrients and water to the plant.  

• Sometimes roots act as an energy storage system and store food for later use by the plant. Have you eaten beets, carrots, or radishes? Dissect one of these root vegetables. Can you identify the stored food? 

• Do the root vegetables look tasty? Why or why not? Predict if the vegetable is ripe and why you think that. You can explore the Life of a Radish poster [link] to help you with your predictions! 

Further Investigation Idea 

• Work in pairs or small groups to look closely at two or more root vegetables. What looks similar? What looks different? What might account for the differences in color, shape, and size?