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Water accounts for over 80% of the mass of most plants. It is essential for photosynthesis, metabolism, and the transport of nutrients and other molecules. Inorganic nutrients are likewise crucial for plant growth and reproduction. For instance, nitrogen is a building block for key biomolecules, such as amino acids, while potassium is critical for the opening and closing of stomata. How do plants reliably absorb nutrients and large amounts of water?

Most plants acquire water and minerals from the soil in which they are rooted. Plant roots release hydrogen ions and carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide reacts with water, forming a bicarbonate anion, and additional hydrogen ions. The hydrogen ions bind to negatively charged soil particles, which releases positively charged ions, like potassium, into the soil solution. This process is called cation exchange and makes nutrients available to the plant.

The root architecture and branching patterns are essential for efficient water and nutrient uptake. For instance, the outer layer of cells that is in contact with the soil forms tiny root hairs. These specialized cells have a large surface area that absorbs water through both active and passive