Introduction
A plant has many complicated and complex systems that keep it living and growing, including the shoot system. When referring to the shoot system in a plant, we generally refer to the leaves, buds, flowering stems and flowering buds, as well as the main stem itself. The word 'shoot' generally is used when talking about the main stem.
Function of the Leaves
- Leaves are the food factories of a plant. In the leaves, the plant combines chlorophyll (the green colour), air, sunlight and water to make food by a process called photosynthesis.
- The leaves allow the plant to breathe. A gas from the air called carbon dioxide goes into the plant through tiny openings in the back of the leaves. These openings are called pores or stomata.
- Water evaporates from the pores of leaves by a process called transpiration. This helps to cool the plants.
- Some leaves store food which is then eaten by animals including humans.
Functions of the Stem
- The stems of most plant hold up the leaves and other parts of the plant that grow above the ground. They space out the leaves so that they receive adequate sunlight and air.
- Stems have tiny tubes. These tubes carry water and mineral salts from the roots to the other parts of the plant.
- Stems hold up the flowers for pollination by wind or insect.
- Some stems store food and water for example, irish potato and yam which are underground stem tubers.
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