Question

Define the vegetative propagation. Differentiate between stem tuber and tuberous stem.

Answer 1

Vegetative propagation is a form of asexual reproduction of a plant. Only one plant is involved and the offspring is the result of one parent. The new plant genetically identical to the parent. New plants grow from parts of the parent plant.

Tuberous root	Stem tuber
(i) They are enlarged secondary roots.	They are swollen sections of stem.
(ii) There are no nodes or buds.	Tuberous stems genetically have a vertical orientation with vegetative buds.
(iii) The enlarged area of the root-tuber, or storage root, can be produced at the end or middle of a root or involve the entire root.	They occur on the main stem, often just below the soil level.
(iv) Tuberous roots act as storage structures, allowing the plant to survive a dormant period.	They act like seeds, producing small plants that resemble (in morphology arid size) seedlings.
(v) The plant produces new tuberous roots each season.	They are perennial, and continue to enlarge every year.
(vi) Examples include sweet potato and dahlia.	Examples include tuberous begonias and cyclamen.