Nutrition In Plants

Introduction

Nutrition in plants refer utilizing sunlight, water, and minerals from the soil for energy production through photosynthesis. Carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, lipids, and other nutrients are all found in our meals. These elements are required for the survival of living beings. Plants make their own food, whereas animals and humans do not. Plants and animals provide us with food, either indirectly or directly.

Autotrophic Nutrition in Plants

Autotrophic nutrition in plants is the remarkable ability of plants to create their own sustenance. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants harness sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to produce glucose and other essential organic compounds. This intricate process occurs within the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures sunlight and converts it into energy, enabling plants to grow and thrive.

• Plants are able to produce their own food through a process called photosynthesis.

• The chloroplast is the site of photosynthesis.

• Food production primarily is carried out in leaves. Water and minerals from the soil are absorbed by the root and transported to the leaves through vessels. Carbon dioxide reaches leaves through stomata – which are small pores on leaves surrounded by guard cells.

• Chlorophyll is a green pigment present in leaves that helps the leaves capture energy from sunlight to prepare their food. This production of food that takes place in the presence of sunlight is known as photosynthesis. Hence, the sun serves as the primary source for all living organisms

• During photosynthesis, water and carbon dioxide are used in the presence of sunlight to produce carbohydrates and oxygen.

• Photosynthesis provides food to all living beings.

• Oxygen, one of the main components of life on earth is released by plants during photosynthesis.

• Sunlight

• Water

• Carbon dioxide

• Chlorophyll

• Absorption of energy from sunlight

• Conversion of light energy into chemical energy

• Hydrolysis of water into oxygen and hydrogen

• Carbon dioxide is reduced to form glucose by utilizing chemical energy

Plants’ Essential Nutrients for Nutrition in Plants

• To grow, develop, and produce at their best, plants require specific components or compounds known as plant essential nutrients.
• A plant that lacks an essential nutrient will not be able to complete its life cycle—the seed will not germinate; the plant will not be able to create appropriate roots, stalks, leaves, or flowers; and it will not be able to produce seeds to reproduce. The plant will most likely die.
• On the other hand, too much of a nutrient can harm or even kill plants. For example, too much nitrogen may cause a plant to grow more leaves but less or no fruit. The leaves will turn yellow and eventually die if they are exposed to too much manganese.

Heterotrophic Nutrition in Plants

The heterotrophic mode of feeding refers to plants that lack chlorophyll and rely on other plants for nutrition. These types of feeding are known as heterotrophic nutrition in plants, and they are known as parasites.

Plants that are heterotrophic

Following is a list of heterotrophic plant varieties, which are generally classified based on their nutrition style:

• Parasitic
• Insectivorous
• Saprophytic
• Symbiotic

Nutrition for Parasites

• Some heterotrophic plants rely on other plants and animals for their survival. Plants that feed on other plants are known as parasitic plants. On the other side, the parasite does not assist the host.
• Cuscuta, Cassytha, and other similar plants are examples.

Also Check: Interesting Facts About Nutrition in Plants

FAQs

What is the definition of plant nutrition?

The study of components and chemicals required for plant development, metabolism, and external supply is known as plant nutrition. A plant's life cycle cannot be completed without it.

What is the most common way for plants to eat?

The autotrophic form of nourishment is the most common among plants. Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants' leaves that aids in the production of their own sustenance.

What are the essential nutrients that plants require?

Plants require macronutrients and micronutrients in equal amounts. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulphur are all macronutrients. Boron, chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc are among the micronutrients.

What is the process by which the nutrients are taken by the plants?

Plants use their roots to absorb nutrients. They transfer nutrients and water to the sections of the stem that are above ground level through the stem.