Question

In one to two sentences, identify the purpose of the roots in a plant and how a disease that harms the roots of a flowering plant would affect the plant’s ability to survive.

Answer 1

Roots anchor the plant, absorb water and mineral nutrients from the soil (and often store food), and transport those resources to the stem and leaves. If a disease damages the roots, the plant cannot take up enough water and nutrients, causing wilting, stunted growth, poor flowering and eventually death if the damage is severe.