Irrespective of species, plant roots have remarkably similar patterning, and thus, many cell types are considered functionally homologous across species. Despite these similarities, there is also diversity in root cell types and their differentiation features. Environmental cues are further able to integrate with cell type developmental programs for potentially adaptive outcomes. I will discuss examples of such cell type diversity and their response to the environment as well as how we have used single cell, metabolomic, transcriptomic and functional genomic approaches to elucidate their dynamic responses. These include critical climate change factors like nitrogen and phosphate availability, water deficit and interactions with biotic organisms. Understanding these molecular and developmental responses can facilitate breeding of plants for a more sustainable future.