1. Water and dissolved minerals: This is transported from the roots up to the rest of the plant through the xylem. The xylem is made of dead cells joined end to end, forming a continuous tube. This is driven by a combination of factors, including transpiration (water loss from leaves), capillary action, and root pressure.

2. Sugars (produced through photosynthesis): This is transported from the leaves (where photosynthesis takes place) to other parts of the plant through the phloem. The phloem is made of living cells that form a system of tubes. The movement of sugars is driven by a pressure gradient, with a higher pressure in the leaves and a lower pressure in the areas where sugars are needed.

In essence, the vascular system acts like a plant's circulatory system, delivering essential resources throughout the plant's body.