GARDENING 101

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Light: Light is crucial for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy to fuel growth. Different plants have varying light requirements. (Sunlight, low light, grow lights)

Water: Water is essential for plants as it serves as a medium for nutrient uptake, maintains turgidity (rigidity) of plant cells, and facilitates various metabolic processes. Insufficient water can lead to wilting and stunted growth, while excess water can cause root rot.

Air: Plants require oxygen for respiration. Oxygen is absorbed through pores in the leaves and roots, and it's used in cellular respiration to release energy from stored sugars for growth and metabolism.

Nutrients: Plants require a variety of nutrients for healthy growth, including macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium. These nutrients are obtained from the soil or through fertilizers.

Temperature: Each plant species has an optimal temperature range for growth. Extreme temperatures can damage plant tissues and inhibit metabolic processes. Temperature affects the rate of photosynthesis, water uptake, and overall plant growth.

 Soil quality directly impacts plant growth by providing physical support, water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability.  Soil composition refers to the relative proportions of sand, silt, clay, organic matter, and microorganisms. Ideal soil composition varies depending on the type of plant being grown 

 Soil pH, texture, and structure influence nutrient availability to plants. For example, acidic soils may hinder the uptake of certain nutrients, while sandy soils drain water quickly, potentially causing drought stress.

Good soil health promotes root development, which is essential for nutrient absorption and anchoring plants securely.

 Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. This process occurs primarily in chloroplasts within plant cells.

Chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the green color of plants, absorbs light energy from the sun. This energy is used to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen ions, releasing oxygen as a byproduct

 Carbon dioxide from the air is taken in through tiny pores called stomata on the leaves and combined with hydrogen ions and energy from sunlight to produce glucose.

Light exposure directly influences the rate of photosynthesis. Plants grown in inadequate light may exhibit reduced growth, pale leaves, and poor fruit development due to limited energy production.