The chapter “Plant Growth and Development” in UP Board Class 11 Biology explores the processes by which plants grow, differentiate, and mature. It explains types of plant growth—primary growth (apical meristem) and secondary growth (lateral meristem)—and the concept of cell division, elongation, and differentiation.
Students learn about phases of growth, factors affecting growth, and the measurement of plant growth using indices like relative growth rate and absolute growth rate. The chapter also covers plant development, including photoperiodism, vernalization, and seed dormancy, along with the role of plant hormones such as auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, and ethylene in regulating growth and development.
Understanding plant growth and development is crucial for studying plant physiology, agriculture, and horticulture. This chapter provides a strong foundation for higher studies in botany and is highly relevant for competitive exams like NEET and CUET.