Plant Root Investigation
by Pam Collinge
October 07, 2009
Is the root structure of a plant found in the wetlands different than the root structure of a plant found in the upland prairie region of the outdoor classroom? Sixth grade science students investigated this question today.
Cattail roots from the wetland area were compared to the roots of grasses found by the gazebo. After making observations and drawing diagrams of the roots they were observing, students concluded that the roots of the cattail grew sideways because the root was searching for nutrients. Since the plant stands in water most of the year, the roots do not have to grow deep into the soil in search of water. Students found the upland grass plants had fibrous roots that grew deeper into the soil.
Native Americans used the starch stored in the roots of the cattail as a type of flour. Excretions from near the base of the plant were also used as an antiseptic for wounds. No wonder this plant has earned the nickname "The Walmart of the Wetland!"
