Unit 1 - Structural Units & Functions

Lesson 8: Roots

The roots of a tree have two functions:

  • they absorb water, minerals and nutrients from the soil to assist in growth
  • they also serve to anchor the tree in the ground


Most of the nutrients are absorbed by young roots, whereas old roots are tough and woody, anchoring the tree.







Depending on the type of tree, the root system can look quite different:

  • Pine trees, for example, have a strong central root that is larger than the other roots and extends deep into the soil, as shown in the picture to the right.

  • Other trees, such as the spruce, have a large number of roots that are closer to the surface, as seen in the picture to the left. As roots grow, they branch into finer and finer roots called rootlets. These rootlets are covered by root hairs that absorb water and nutrients from the soil.