Final answer:
A plant should not grow more roots when nutrients are limiting growth since this would waste energy that could not be supported by the limited nutrients. Plants regulate root growth based on water availability and environmental conditions such as temperature and drought.
Step-by-step explanation:
If roots increase a plant's ability to obtain water, a plant should not grow more roots when nutrients are limiting growth. This is because additional roots would not enhance the plant's growth if there are not enough nutrients to support further development. Plants have a balance of needs, and growing more roots requires energy that might be wasted if the necessary nutrients are not available to support the rest of the plant's growth.
It's important to note that in conditions where water is abundant, plants may not need to invest in extensive root systems since water is readily accessible. Additionally, during high temperatures or in drought conditions, plants may adapt by modifying their root growth, leaf size, and stomatal behavior to conserve water and survive under stress.