Orchids Roots and Their Functions
Some orchids are raised in the garden and some in the greenhouse. Orchids raised in greenhouses are said to be epiphytes. This is because they come from places with tropical climate. Tropical climate is favorable in growing plants; thus, competition in these places is very strong. Researchers say that orchids probably once grew from the ground. But because of the strong competition for sunlight and nutrients in tropical places, orchids evolved and sought better and new places where they can grow freely with more sunlight and nutrients. And so orchids climbed to higher places like trees and shrubs. Because of this, orchids roots have changed to support the plants’ climbing needs.
Orchids roots have a core inside called cortex. The cortex is a very tough part of the plant and responsible for carrying nourishment. The roots also have outside covering or what we call the velamen. Velamen is responsible for absorbing water, oxygen, fertilizer and for clinging strongly to any contact because of this, they are not only able to attach themselves well, but they are also able to maximize any food and moisture they can get from any contact. In the wild, these roots can grow up to several meters in length.
One of the most important functions of orchids roots is the exchange of gases in order to have oxygen. These roots open to any moving air. It can be wind, fresh air or air from blowing fan as long as it moves. Another function is to photosynthesize. Some species of orchids live in places with climates that change dramatically. They can go dormant or deciduous in dry climate; some will stay without any leaves. In this case, roots become responsible for the production of enough moisture to help the entire plant stay alive. Indeed, the roots of the orchid are essential to its very existence.
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