Correct Option
The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Vegetative propagation is a mode of asexual reproduction in plants where new individuals arise from vegetative parts such as stems, roots, and leaves, rather than from seeds or spores. These structures, capable of giving rise to new plants, are called vegetative propagules.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Both the "eyes" of a potato and the "buds" of Bryophyllum are vegetative structures used for asexual reproduction. The distinction made in the statement-classifying potato eyes as vegetative and Bryophyllum buds as reproductive (implying sexual or non-vegetative)-is factually wrong. Both are involved in vegetative propagation.
- Statement 2 is Correct. The potato tuber is a modified underground stem meant for food storage; its "eyes" are axillary buds located at the nodes of this stem. In contrast, Bryophyllum develops adventitious buds along the notches of its leaf margins.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Burial in soil is not a strict physiological requirement for the germination or sprouting of these buds. Potato eyes often sprout (germinate) when kept in storage under ambient conditions without soil. Similarly, Bryophyllum buds can develop into plantlets while still attached to the parent leaf or simply upon contact with moist soil surfaces; they do not require burial to initiate growth.
Key Takeaway
Vegetative Propagation utilizes somatic parts of the plant: Potato propagates via stem tubers (eyes are nodal buds), while Bryophyllum propagates via leaf buds (adventitious buds on leaf margins).