Read How Plant Growth and Development Begin
Plant growth is localised in meristems, while development integrates genes, signals and environmental conditions over the life cycle.
Living-system questions are solved by matching a structure or organism to its function, process and stated condition.
Find where growth occurs
Cell division is concentrated in apical, intercalary and lateral meristems. Because meristems can remain active, plants can continue growing and form new organs. Germination resumes embryo growth under suitable conditions.
Connect growth with development
Development combines growth and differentiation. Genes act within cells, plant growth regulators coordinate between cells, and water, light and temperature provide environmental inputs. Plasticity lets the same genotype form different structures across environments or life stages.
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- ✓Meristems localise cell division.
- ✓Plant growth can continue through life.
- ✓Development = growth + differentiation, shaped by internal and external factors.
- ✓Plasticity: one genotype, context-dependent forms.
Plant growth is not uniform across every mature tissue.
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