Final answer:
Removing the apical meristem from a plant would prevent it from growing in length and may lead to a bushier growth due to increased lateral meristem activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you remove the apical meristem from a typical plant, the effect on further plant growth would be significant. The apical meristem is responsible for the primary growth of the plant, meaning it enables the plant to grow in length, both in the shoots and roots. The shoots are able to access more light, while the roots can grow to access more water and minerals. Without an apical meristem, the plant would be unable to extend its roots or shoots, which could severely limit or even stop its growth. Moreover, the loss of the apical meristem could encourage the lateral meristems to become more active, promoting the growth of the branches and possibly leading to a bushier plant, depending on the plant's response to the change in apical dominance.