Tomato Root Structure

Primary Root

• The primary root of a tomato plant, also known as the tap root, is a long, thick root that extends straight downward. This forms the core of the root system and the primary support of the plant body. All other roots connect to this main root, which serves as a conduit for moisture and nutrients extracted from the soil.

Lateral Roots

• Lateral roots are those which extend from the sides of the tomato plant's primary root. These function as anchors for the plant, preventing it from collapsing to one side or the other. The primary roots grow outward and downward, diagonally, allowing the plant to come into contact with as large an area of soil as possible.

Root Hairs

• Small hairs cover almost the entire length of every root, extending from the epidermis or outer layer. Though these do help anchor the plant even more securely to the soil, their primary purpose is to increase the roots' surface area, allowing for maximum water and mineral intake. These hairs absorb vital nutrients from the soil, which are then passed up the roots to feed the tomato plant body.

Root Tip

• The tip of the primary root is the location of the greatest growth on the tomato plant. The internal portion of this region is known as the meristem, in which cells rapidly divide and grow downward. Just beneath this is the root cap, a protective covering over the very tip of the root to prevent damage to the newly formed cells.