The root system, an organ of higher plants that is usually found underground, has several functions, including anchoring of a plant in the soil and absorption and transportation of nutrients and water into the plant. Roots may also store food and function in asexual reproduction.

The first root that forms is known as the radicle. It elongates during germination of the seed and forms the primary root. In many plants, root systems comprise a branching mass of similar-sized roots leading off into the soil in all directions. These fibrous roots (i.e., the roots of grasses) provide a large surface area for absorption of nutrients and water. Fibrous roots hold soil in place and prevent erosion. Some plants, however, (i.e., beets and carrots), have a primary food storage root, which is called a taproot because it is much larger than the secondary roots and penetrates...