The major functions of roots are: 1) to anchor the plant in the soil; 2) the storage of energy resources, such as the carrot and sugar beet; 3) absorption of water and minerals from the soil; and 4) to conduct water and minerals to and from the shoot. The roots store the food (energy resources) of the plant, which is either used by the roots themselves or digested; the products of digestion are transported back up through the phloem to the above-ground portions of the plant. Plant hormones are synthesized in certain regions of the roots and transported upward in the xylem to the upper parts of the plant, thus stimulating growth and development.