The Role of Meristems in Primary Growth of Stems

Explanation:

The meristems in stems responsible for primary growth are found in apical and axillary buds. This growth occurs through rapidly dividing cells in the apical meristems located at the shoot tip and root tip. Apical meristems allow for the elongation of stems and roots, enabling the plant to access additional space and resources such as light for shoots and water and minerals for roots.

Furthermore, apical meristems contribute to the formation of new organs such as leaves and flowers as they differentiate. Oftentimes, the apical meristem of a single branch will become dominant, leading to the development of a single trunk through a process known as apical dominance. In some plant species, like grasses, intercalary meristems found at the base of leaf blades can promote regrowth after damage, which is essential for recovery from grazing or mowing.