Introduction to Plants

What Are Plants?

Plants are not like animals. Plants cannot move to find food. Instead, they must have the ability to survive where they are. They also must have the ability to make their own food. They also cannot move around to find a mate, so they have evolved unique ways to reproduce.

Needs of Plants

Plants are somewhat limited by temperature in terms of where they can grow. They need temperatures above freezing. The can survive temperatures below freezing, but cannot grow during this period of time. They also need light, carbon dioxide, and water. These are the ingredients they need to make their own food. Like most other living things, plants need oxygen. Oxygen is required for cellular respiration. In addition, plants need minerals. The minerals are required to make proteins and other organic molecules.

Importance of Plants

Life as we know it would not be possible without plants. Why are plants so important?

  • Plants supply food to nearly all land organisms, including people. We mainly eat either plants or other living things that eat plants.
  • Plants produce oxygen. Oxygen is needed by almost all the Earth's organisms.
  • Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air. This helps control the greenhouse effect and global warming.
  • Plants recycle matter in ecosystems. For example, they are an important part of the water cycle. They take up liquid water from the soil through their roots. They release water vapor to the air from their leaves.
  • Plants provide many products for human use. They include timber, medicines, dyes, oils, and rubber.
  • Plants provide homes for many other living things. For example, a single tree may provide food and shelter to many species of animals.