Fascinating Information About Parts of a Plant for Kids

Plantlife is an integral part of nature. There are many kinds of plants, bushes and trees in our surroundings. They play an essential role in our daily lives by providing us with the oxygen we breathe, the food we consume, medicine, paper, rubber products, fuel, shelter and clothing. Just like humans, plants too undergo different stages of growth to complete their life cycle. Detailed information on plant parts for kids that aid in plant growth and their survival is given below for their easy understanding.

Structural Classification of a Plant

Plants are unique regarding physical appearance, physiological behaviour and structure. So with that kind of diversity, it is important to teach kids about their basic structural classification so that they get excited about a plant’s journey from seed to plant. Flowering plants look attractive and help to uplift our mood. If your kid is interested in flowers, enlighten them all about the parts of a flowering plant so that they know that flowers are special structures that not only spread sweet fragrance but are involved in pollination and fertilization as well. Given below are the two broad classifications of a plant:

1. The Root

The part of the plant that is hidden underground is called the root system. It consists of organs like roots, tubers and rhizomes. Roots hold the plant/tree steady in the ground, absorb water and minerals from the soil.

2. The Shoot

Shoots are located above the ground and include organs such as the leaves, stem, flowers (for flowering plants) and fruits (plant bearing fruits). They help plants make their food by the process of photosynthesis.

Parts of a Plant and Their Functions

Each part of a plant has specific functions that work simultaneously to display the wonders of our nature. Let us explore some of the amazing work that each of these parts does:

1. Root

Roots are simple tissues that are derived from the stem of the plant. They absorb moisture and essential nutrients from the soil. They also help to anchor the plant to the ground and support the stem of the plant. In some plants like carrots, roots store food, while in some, they are used for propagation.

2. Stem

The primary function of a stem is to transport the water and nutrients from the roots and distribute them to the leaves to be converted into food through photosynthesis. The stem also transports the food from the leaves to the plants’ other parts, including the roots. Stems store food, water, etc., for the plant and, if they are green, generally produce food themselves. They also support the leaves as well as the other reproductive structures.

3. Leaf

A leaf is the part of the plant that makes food for the plants by the process of photosynthesis. It traps energy from the sunlight and uses it to convert the air and water into glucose. The presence of chlorophyll in leaves give them their green colour, and chlorophyll is responsible for absorbing light energy from the sun. The leaves also help to identify the type of plant species it belongs to.

4. Fruit

Fruits are the part of flowering plants that contain and protect the tiny developing seeds within them. Fruits also help in the dispersal of seeds and are the edible part of the plant for humans.

5. Flower

This reproductive organ of a flowering plant makes seeds that become new plants. Flowers also attract pollinators that help with the fertilization process of the plant and results in fruits. They can also be a rich source of food for living organisms like humans, birds and animals.

6. Seed

Seeds are the reproductive parts of a plant that are packed with nutrition. They grow into new plants after being sown into the ground.

Classrooms that contain plants can positively contribute to the psychological wellbeing and development of children. Try some creative ways to teach your kids more about plants so that they appreciate their contribution to human existence.

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Sun Facts for Children
Earth Facts for Children
Science Facts for Children