We all need plants. They play an important role in our environment. All living things in the world, directly or indirectly, depend on plants for their food.
For all forms of life, plants form the basic food staples, and this is just one reason why plants are important. They are the major source of oxygen and food on earth since no animal is able to supply the components necessary without plants. The fish we eat consume algae and the cattle we eat as beef feed on grass, so even if you’re not a fan of salads, your food source relies on plants.
Plants are used as state and national emblems as well, including state flowers and state trees. Trees from ancient times are famous and are revered. Plants hold world records as well. Often, plants prominently figure in literature, religion and mythology
Plants also provide animals with shelter, produce clothing material, medicines, paper products, reduce noise levels and wind speed, reduce water runoff and soil erosion. Coal is also produced from plant materials that were once alive.
Cash crops produce income for farmers. Peanut oil comes from peanuts, corn oil comes from corn and olive oil comes from olive. Cash crops also include typical products of agriculture like rice, rye, wheat and corn. Cocoa plants give us chocolate, coffee plants produce coffee and vanilla plants produce vanilla flavoring.
Many beverages and drinks like tea and cola come from plants. Other cash crops include cotton, vegetables, fruit, lumber and rubber from trees. For overall ecology, plants are also important. The roots prevent soil erosion and when plants undergo photosynthesis, they use up carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, just like herbal plants do in this article.
This course on the different types of plants is a great place to learn more about the importance of plants, but I’ll get you started with some basic information – read on!