Unlike primary growth, secondary growth in roots and stems involves which types of cambium?

The process of secondary growth in roots and stems is primarily associated with the vascular cambium and cork cambium.

The vascular cambium is a lateral meristem that produces new layers of vascular tissue, specifically xylem and phloem, as the plant grows in thickness. This increase in girth allows for enhanced water and nutrient transportation, providing structural support as the plant matures.

The cork cambium, on the other hand, is responsible for producing bark and protective tissue on the exterior of the stem and roots. This outer layer helps protect the plant from physical damage and desiccation.

In contrast, the other types of cambium mentioned in the other options do not play significant roles in secondary growth. The procambium is involved in primary growth, giving rise to primary xylem and phloem rather than contributing to the thickening of the plant. Intercalary cambium generally occurs in monocots and primarily supports elongation rather than thickening. Fascicular cambium typically refers to the meristematic tissue between xylem and phloem in young stems and is not associated with secondary growth. The pericycle, while involved in root development, does not directly relate to the processes governing secondary growth.

Thus, the