Colonising New Area

This plant extends the stems into the new area before leaves start to grow out of the stems and form a healthy plant.
The stems seem to be the exploratory tool/supply bases, prior to colonisation of new area. The chance of survival is high due to ability to get food and water supply from established area.
This method reminds me, in order to colonise other planets or stars effectively, humans have to establish bases of adequate supplies, whether food or water or other supports.
Can we establish bases/stations in empty space which can last thousands of years?
Perhaps we can, if we save money out of arm race and wastage of unnecessary resources!