Types of Growth

Classified by Developmental Stages Primary growth:

• Apical meristems extend roots and shoots by giving rise to the primary plant body
• Secondary growth: Lateral meristems add girth by producing secondary vascular tissue and periderm

A meristem is the tissue in most plants consisting of undifferentiated cells (meristematic cells), found in zones of the plant where growth can take place.

Apical meristems

• The apical meristem, or growing tip, is a completely undifferentiated meristematic tissue found in the buds and growing tips of roots in plants.
• Its main function is to begin the growth of new cells in young seedlings at the tips of roots and shoots (forming buds, among other things).
• Specifically, an active apical meristem lays down a growing root or shoot behind itself, pushing itself forward.