Which characteristic aids in the anchorage and support of plants in a substrate?

The characteristic that aids in the anchorage and support of plants in a substrate is the texture and structure of the substrate. The texture refers to the composition of the substrate, such as the size of the particles (sand, silt, clay), while the structure refers to how these particles are arranged and interact with each other to form aggregates and pore spaces.

A well-structured substrate provides adequate space for root penetration and allows roots to anchor securely, which is essential for supporting the plant as it grows. Good texture ensures that there are sufficient voids for air and water movement, which are crucial for healthy root development. Roots need to attach to particles in the growing medium to stabilize the plant and to access nutrients and water. In contrast, other characteristics like cation exchange capacity, moisture retention, and bulk density, while important for plant growth, primarily affect nutrient availability, water supply, and weight, respectively, rather than directly providing mechanical support and anchorage.