Final answer:
Cut ends on grass can cause both water loss and disease entry, impacting the plant's health by draining resources and exposing it to pathogens. Sealing cuts can help grass continue to grow healthily by preventing these issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is c) both: water loss and entry for diseases. Cut ends on grass can have a significant biological impact because they can lead to increased water loss and provide an entry point for pathogens, which can cause diseases. When grass is cut, it loses part of its structure that helps to retain water, which is crucial for its survival. Additionally, cut ends can expose the inner tissues of the grass to various fungi, bacteria, and viruses that might not otherwise be able to breach the outer defenses of healthy, uncut grass.
The act of cutting grass or any plant triggers a response where the plant must repair the wound. This can drain resources from other growth and maintenance processes. Moreover, studies have indicated that plants, including grass, with sealed cuts can continue to thrive by growing new branches, while those with unsealed cuts are vulnerable to infections. Thus, proper care after cutting can help in safeguarding the grass from detrimental effects.