The fibrous roots are about the same size.
A fibrous root is a type of plant root. In plants with a fibrous root system, the roots are about the same size and look like strands of fine, branching hairs that have grown to create a dense mat. This type of root system is extremely common, especially among grasses and wildflowers, and has a number of advantages for the plant. Many people have experienced stringy roots if they work in the garden.
When plants begin to grow, the first root they put out is known as the radicle. The radicle is a large, bushy root that is designed to establish and anchor the plant so it can absorb nutrients. Plants with a fibrous root system have rootlets that eventually die, allowing the fibrous roots to protrude from the stem into the ground. Axial roots, on the other hand, develop directly from the radicle, creating a single large, thick root that anchors the plant to the ground. Classically, fibrous roots can be found protruding from the main roots to collect nutrients for the plant.
One of the advantages of a fibrous root system is that it can be extremely helpful in erosion control, because the roots help hold the soil in place. The roots can also retain moisture for the plant, and their wide spread ensures that the plant has sufficient access to nutrients and water. The fibrous roots also hold the plant firmly in place so it can’t be disturbed by adverse weather, animals, and other forces.
These advantages can also be disadvantages for gardeners, when a plant with stringy roots is not desired. These plants can be difficult to uproot and eradicate because they grip the soil too tightly, and the plant will regrow if the roots are not completely removed. Weeding these plants is also a tricky business because they tend to pull up large chunks of soil and other substrate materials, such as gravel and decaying organic material.
Stringy roots like to spread out, which can be a big problem in container gardening. Plants with these types of roots tend to become snagged as the roots begin to fill the container the plant is grown in. As the roots continue to grow, they tangle and fold in on themselves, creating a tight clod that deprives the plant of nutrients and makes transplanting difficult. A fibrous root system can also be threatened when people dig around the parent plant, as people can inadvertently cut the roots.
