What do biennial weeds primarily do in their first year of growth?

Biennial weeds have a two-year life cycle. During their first year of growth, these plants focus on establishing a strong foundation for their development. This involves the formation of basal leaves and a taproot. The basal leaves are typically broad and low to the ground, allowing the plant to maximize photosynthesis while securing nutrients from the soil through the taproot.

In the second year, biennial weeds often flower and produce seeds, completing their life cycle. It's essential to recognize that these plants do not die after seeding in their first year, nor do they grow into woody plants at this stage. Their growth strategy in the first year is critical as it lays the groundwork for successful reproduction in the following year. Thus, forming basal leaves and a taproot is a vital characteristic of biennial weeds' initial growth phase.