Lesson 6 of 13 · 6 min
Conditions for growth
NCERT §13.1.5
The same rice variety thrives in Kavya's field and struggles in her neighbour's waterlogged, cold corner. What does growth actually need?
The lesson in notes
In short
Water: plant cells grow by enlarging, which needs water. Turgidity of the cells helps extension growth, so growth and development are closely linked to the water status of the plant. Water is also the medium for the enzyme activity growth needs.
Oxygen: helps release the metabolic energy that growth activities require.
Nutrients: macro and micro essential elements are needed to synthesise protoplasm and also act as a source of energy.
Temperature: every plant has an optimum temperature range for growth; moving outside it can harm survival.
Signals from outside, such as light and gravity, also shape particular stages of growth.