Oxygen is released into the air during the process. It is then converted into chemical energy which is stored as starch or sugar. These starches and sugars are stored in roots, stems and fruits. They are available to the plant as food or fuel. Plants differ from animals in that animals cannot manufacture their own food from light energy.
Plants vary widely in their requirement for light.
Plants should be spaced in the garden so they receive the necessary amount of sunlight. Tall plants should not shade shorter plants. Trees may require pruning to ensure that adequate light reaches grass, flowers or shrubs planted nearby. The food that a plant stores is used by the plant for new growth. The process of converting stored food into usable energy is called respiration.