How do plants absorb nutrients from fertilisers?

Plants absorb nutrients from fertilisers through their roots in a process called nutrient uptake.

Fertilisers are substances added to the soil to enhance its nutrient content, thereby promoting plant growth. They typically contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for plant health. When these fertilisers are applied to the soil, they dissolve in the soil water, making the nutrients available for absorption by the plant roots.

The process of nutrient uptake is facilitated by the plant's root system. The roots have tiny hair-like structures called root hairs, which increase the surface area for absorption. These root hairs are in direct contact with the soil particles and the soil water. The nutrients from the fertilisers, now dissolved in the soil water, move from the soil into the root hairs by a process called diffusion. This is a passive process, meaning it does not require energy from the plant.

However, some nutrients are absorbed by a process called active transport. This is an energy-requiring process where nutrients are moved from an area of lower concentration in the soil to an area of higher concentration in the root cells. This process is essential for the absorption of nutrients that are present in low concentrations in the soil.

Once inside the root cells, the nutrients are transported to other parts of the plant through the vascular system, which consists of the xylem and phloem. The xylem transports water and dissolved nutrients upwards from the roots to the stems and leaves, while the phloem distributes sugars and other nutrients from the leaves to the rest of the plant.

In summary, plants absorb nutrients from fertilisers through their roots using processes such as diffusion and active transport. The nutrients are then transported to other parts of the plant where they are used for growth and development.