scholarly journals Above and Belowground Growth of Corymbia maculata in a Constructed Soil: The Effect of Profile Design and Organic Amendment

2010 ◽  
Vol 36 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-17
Author(s):  
Karen Smith ◽  
Peter May ◽  
Robert White
Keyword(s):  
Organic Matter ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Organic Amendment ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Nutrient Status ◽  
Fertilizer Treatment ◽  
Coir Fiber ◽  
Growth Responses ◽  
Profile Design

Spotted gum (Corymbia maculata (Hook.) K.D. Hill & L.A.S. Johnson), a common street tree in southern Australian cities, was used to assess growth responses to variations in profile design and organic amendment of constructed soils. Aboveground growth responses were total stem dry weight and foliar nutrient content. The belowground response was root length density. Soil profiles were constructed of sand, amended with either coir fiber, composted biosolids or composted green waste, at rates of 0, 5, 10 or 20% by volume. The profiles were either layered, with a 150 mm (6 in) organic-amended surface layer, or uniform, with amendment of the entire profile. A single fertilizer treatment was applied to all profiles. Shoot dry weight was only affected by organic matter type with the greatest growth in sand amended with composted biosolids. Foliage P and K content were affected by amendment but foliage N was not. Profile design affected root length density and distribution. Trees in uniform profiles had greater root length density, and a more uniform distribution of roots, especially with compost amendments. Above- and belowground growth increases are thought to be due to increased nutrient status resulting from organic matter mineralization.

scholarly journals Shallow Substrates Support the Growth of Contrasting Plant Types Installed in Irrigated, Arid-Climate Green Roofs1

2017 ◽  
Vol 35 (4) ◽  
pp. 146-155
Author(s):  
Lauren Forrest ◽  
Rachel Gioannini ◽  
Dawn M. VanLeeuwen ◽  
Rolston St. Hilaire
Keyword(s):  
Root Length ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
Greenhouse Experiment ◽  
Outdoor Environment ◽  
Arid Climate ◽  
Evaporative Demand ◽  
Design Factor ◽  
Substrate Depth

Abstract Extreme evaporative demand makes substrate depth a critical design factor in arid-climate green roofs. The objective of this study was to determine whether a shallow irrigated substrate could support the growth of hens and chicks (Sempervivum calcareum L.) and iceplant [Delosperma nubigenum (Hook.f.) L.Bolus] in an arid environment. First, an experiment was conducted in the greenhouse that established that plants survived in 10 cm (3.9 in), 15 cm (5.9 in), and 20 cm (7.9 in) substrate depths, which then lead to a second experiment in an outdoor environment. The substrate was heat-expanded clay:sand:worm castings (6:3:1, by volume) in a greenhouse experiment and heat-expanded clay:zeolite:worm castings (6:3:1, by volume) in an outdoor experiment. In the greenhouse experiment, deep root length density (RLD) was significantly greater in the 10 cm-deep (3.9 in) substrate, while outdoors, deep RLD was highest for plants grown in the 15 cm-deep (5.9 in) substrate. Outdoors, iceplant had significantly greater mean coverage and shoot dry weight than hens and chicks. Lack of significant differences in quality and coverage due to substrate depth, coupled with higher RLD in the 10 cm (3.9 in) and 15 cm (5.9 in) depths in both experiments provides evidence that shallow irrigated substrates support the growth of both taxa. Index words: iceplant, hens and chicks, plant coverage, root length density, quality, zeolite, heat expanded clay. Species used in this study: hens and chicks (Sempervivum calcareum L.); iceplant [Delosperma nubigenum (Hook.f.) L. Bolus].

scholarly journals 606 PB 246 Effect of planting density on root length distribution and mineral content in Y-shaped self rooted `Flordaprince' peach trees

HortScience ◽  
1994 ◽  
Vol 29 (5) ◽  
pp. 519a-519
Author(s):  
T. Caruso ◽  
F.P. Marra ◽  
A. Motisi ◽  
D. Giovannini
Keyword(s):  
Root Length ◽  
Mineral Content ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Length Distribution ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Planting Density ◽  
Black Plastic ◽  
Old Trees ◽  
Peach Trees ◽  
Two Sides

Length and distribution of the roots of 2-year old cv. `Flordaprince' peach trees grown under polyethylene greenhouse were studied over a two year period. The self-rooted, micropropagated trees were spaced 4.9 m between the row and 70, 52 and 42 cm. along the row to obtain a density of 3000, 4000 and 5000 trees/ha respectively. Orchard was clean cultivated, mulched along the row with black plastic fabric 1 m wide, and drip fertigated. Soon after harvest, for each density, the root system of one tree was totally excavated and root length, distribution, dry weight and nutrients content were determined. Total root length per tree was negatively related to planting density in two-year old trees (470, 380 and 320 m/tree respectively for 3000, 4000 and 5000 trees/ha). The shallowest root systems were found at 5000 trees/ha density and their length was unchanged from year to year. Root length density, ranging from 220 to 250 m/m), was only slightly affected by spacing in the two years. The roots were evenly distributed between the two sides of the rows.

Growth of corn roots under low-input and conventional farming systems

1997 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 173-177 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Pallant ◽  
David M. Lansky ◽  
Jessica E. Rio ◽  
Lawrence D. Jacobs ◽  
George E. Schulera ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Organic Matter ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Farming Systems ◽  
Analysis Of Covariance ◽  
Growth And Yield ◽  
Root Production ◽  
Conventional Farming ◽  
Low Input ◽  
Corn Roots

AbstractChanges in soil physical and chemical properties following conversion from conventional to low-input farming systems could alter root growth in com and hence aboveground growth and yield. The main hypothesis we tested is that low-input and conventional farming systems produce different amounts of corn roots. We compared low-input and conventional farming systems, row position (row and interrow), and soil depth for effects on root length density in a Comly silt loam (Typic Fragiudalf) at the Rodale Institute Research Center in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. On all sampling dates studied (two each in 1989 and 1990) root length density under low-input farming systems was significantly greater than under conventional farming systems. We used analysis of covariance to correct for soil factors that could not be directly controlled. Soil water and bulk density had no clear effect on root length density. In contrast, there was significant covariance of soil organic matter with root length density on two of the four sample dates. Root networks were more dense in soil pockets rich in organic matter for every farming system, row position, and depth. These findings indicate that low-input farmers may be manipulating root production of corn to allow com to absorb more nutrients and water when water in the topsail is limited.

scholarly journals In situ Root Phenotypes of Cotton Seedlings Under Phosphorus Stress Revealed Through RhizoPot

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zichen Zhang ◽  
Lingxiao Zhu ◽  
Dongxiao Li ◽  
Nan Wang ◽  
Hongchun Sun ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Growth Rate ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Root Hairs ◽  
Specific Root Length ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
P Deficiency ◽  
Branch Density ◽  
P Absorption

Phosphorus (P) deficiency is a common challenge in crop production because of its poor mobility through the soil. The root system plays a significant role in P absorption from the soil and is the initial indicator of low P levels. However, the phenotypic dynamics and longevity of cotton roots under P stress remain unknown. In this study, RhizoPot, an improvised in situ root observation device, was used to monitor the dynamics of root phenotypes of cotton seedlings under P-deficient (PD) and P-replete (PR) conditions. Low P stress reduced P absorption and accumulation in the roots, leading to low dry weight accumulation. Cotton seedlings responded to low P stress by increasing the number of lateral roots, specific root length, branch density, root length density, and length of root hairs. Additionally, the life span of root hairs was prolonged. Low P stress also reduced the average diameter of roots, promoted root extension, expanded the root coverage area, and increased the range of P acquisition. Principal component analysis revealed that the net root growth rate, root length density, root dry weight, P absorption efficiency, average root hair length, and taproot daily growth significantly influenced the cotton root architecture. Collectively, these results show that low P stress reduces the net growth rate of cotton seedling roots and restricts plant growth. Plants respond to P deficiency by extending the life span of root hairs and increasing specific root length and lateral root branch density. This change in root system architecture improves the adaptability of plants to low P conditions. The findings of this study may guide the selection of cotton varieties with efficient P utilization.

scholarly journals Monitoring of maize root growth on N, P, and K fertilization using rhizotron

2021 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 74-79
Author(s):  
Fajrin Pramana Putra ◽  
Roni Ismoyojati
Keyword(s):  
Dry Weight ◽  
Fertilizer Treatment ◽  
Growth Responses ◽  
Plant Laboratory ◽  
Root Dry Weight ◽  
Shoot Dry Weight ◽  
Weight Growth ◽  
Randomized Design ◽  
Maize Roots ◽  
K Fertilizer

Maize roots will show varying growth responses to the type of fertilizer given. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of N, P, and K fertilizers on the growth of maize roots and the function of the relationship between root dry weight and shoot dry weight of maize under rizhotron. The research was conducted in April - June 2019 at the screen house and Plant Laboratory, Politeknik Lamandau in Lamandau Regency. The research was conducted in rizhotron's growth medium which was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with a fertilizer treatment consisting of urea (N = 200 kg ha-1), SP36 (P = 100 kg ha-1), KCl (K = 100 kg ha-1), and control (without fertilizer) with three replications. The results showed that N fertilizer was able to provide better root dry weight growth compared to P and K fertilizer, namely 2.59 g. Root dry weight has a significant effect on plant dry weight gain based on the function of y = 4.10x + 0.06 (R2 = 0.96 **).

Root and shoot growth and water use of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) grown in dryland conditions: effects of sowing date and genotype

1989 ◽  
Vol 113 (1) ◽  
pp. 41-49 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. C. Brown ◽  
P. J. Gregory ◽  
P. J. M. Cooper ◽  
J. D. H. Keatinge
Keyword(s):  
Water Use ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Sowing Date ◽  
Root Weight ◽  
Growing Seasons ◽  
Crop Root ◽  
Shoot Weight ◽  
Seed Yields

SUMMARYGrowth and water use of kabuli-type chickpea was measured during the 1982/83 and 1983/84 growing seasons in northern Syria under rainfed conditions. Winter-sown (November) and springsown (March) crops of cv. ILC 482 were grown in 1982/83 while in 1983/84 spring-sown crops of contrasting genotypes (ILC 482, ILC 1929 and ILC 3279) were compared.In 1982/83, shoot dry matter and seed yields of the winter-sown crop were almost twice those of the spring-sown crop although the water use of both crops was almost the same. Root growth of both crops was most rapid before flowering but continued until maturity (early June) in the winter-sown and until mid to late pod filling (also early June) in the spring-sown crop. Root dry weight (c. 45 g/m2) and length (c. 45 cm/cm2) were similar in both crops during pod filling.In 1983/84, shoot weight, root weight and root length were similar in all genotypes but the later maturity of ILC 3279 resulted in lower seed yield and hence harvest index, and greater water use.The root length density decreased approximately logarithmically with depth in the soil profile although comparison between seasons and with other published results showed that the relations could not be used predictively. Water use efficiency was poorer in the second, drier season and was almost doubled by winter sowing.

Does biochar contribute to soil organic matter accumulation? – A tropical perspective

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura Sophie Schnee ◽  
Albert Ngakou ◽  
Juliane Filser
Keyword(s):  
Organic Matter ◽  
Soil Organic Matter ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Soil Nutrient ◽  
Nutrient Retention ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Nutrient Status ◽  
Tropical Soils ◽  
Added Value ◽  
Soil Conditions

<p>Tropical soils are often deeply weathered and vulnerable to degradation. Biochar appears a promising means to improve soil quality while sequestering carbon into the soil. Yet, sustainable soil amelioration depends on stable soil organic matter (SOM) stocks for nutrient retention, water uptake and as habitat for soil life. In a literature meta-analysis, we investigated, if biochar amendment to tropical soils led to SOM increases additional to biochar C. We found a mean additional C accumulation (MAC) of 0.29% soil dry weight (% dw). MAC was independent of study duration, climate, and biochar addition rate, but strongly linked to soil type and nutrient status prior to the experiment: In Nitisols, MAC was highest (0.99% dw) and initial C and N contents were higher in these soils. MAC was slightly negative in Ferralsols and Oxisols (– 0.01% dw and –0.2% dw respectively). MAC as a percentage of initial C content was < 50% for most soil types, but –50% in Ferralsols, Oxisols and Ultisols. Changes to soil microbiomes were more conclusive and included elevated enzyme activities and shifts from bacterial to fungi dominated microbiomes. We conclude that soil nutrient status prior to amendment, which is often linked to microbial activity, determines if the alteration of soil conditions caused by the biochar can be buffered ecologically, so that fresh organic residues are transformed into SOM. Additionally, we remarked that research on biochar – SOM interactions in tropical soils largely depends on cooperations with institutions from North America and Europe for funding and analytical infrastructure. Researchers, institutions, and funding bodies need to be creative and cautious to realise equitable participation of all partners in international research projects designed to render added value for societies around the world.</p>

scholarly journals Soil Organic Matter Content Effects on Apple Root Dynamics

HortScience ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 39 (4) ◽  
pp. 842D-842
Author(s):  
Dario Stefanelli* ◽  
Giovambattista Sorrenti ◽  
Ronald L. Perry
Keyword(s):  
Organic Matter ◽  
Soil Organic Matter ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Organic Matter Content ◽  
Mineral Fertilizer ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Matter Content ◽  
Root Dynamics ◽  
Shoot Ratio ◽  
Root Shoot Ratio

Soil organic matter is a critical component which is fundamental in plant growth. Several soil factors are influenced by organic matter such as slow release of nutrients, increased water holding capacity, improved soil physical characteristics and improved environment for soil microorganisms. The aim of this work is to investigate the physical effect of organic matter content in the soil on apple root growth and development. Twenty five two-year old apple trees (Malus domestica, Borkh) cv. `Buckeye Gala' on M.9 NAKB 337 rootstock were planted in completely transparent acrylic boxes. Plants have been grown in a green house to avoid external rain in a complete randomized design. Trees were planted in a sandy-mix soil amended with soil high in organic matter, “muck”, at four incremental levels. Treatments compared were a control (sandy soil with 0% organic matter) and 1%, 2%, 4% and 8% soil organic matter. The amount of water applied by automatic drip irrigation was comparable for all the treatments to avoid high fluctuation of soil moisture on root dynamics. All treatments have been fertilized with the same amount of mineral fertilizer to avoid the nutrition effect on root dynamics. Digital photos of roots were taken to study their dynamics every one to two weeks during a period of five months. Roots have been highlighted with Photoshop and then analyzed with WinRhizo to measure root length, area, lifespan and dynamics. At the end of the growing period plants have been harvested and fresh and dry weight was evaluated to asses the root/shoot ratio. The effects of the treatments on root length, area, lifespan and dynamics, and root/shoot ratio will be discussed.

scholarly journals EFFECTS OF TALL FESCUE TURF ON GROWTH AND NITROGEN FIXATION POTENTIAL OF THE WOODY LEGUME LUPINUS ALBIFRONS

HortScience ◽  
1990 ◽  
Vol 25 (9) ◽  
pp. 1104c-1104
Author(s):  
Lin Wu ◽  
Armando Torres
Keyword(s):  
Tall Fescue ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Root Zone ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Dominant Factor ◽  
Phosphorus Fertilization ◽  
Allelopathic Effect ◽  
Nitrogen Fixing

The effect of tall fescue turf on growth, flowering, modulation, and nitrogen fixing potential of Lupinus albifrons Benth. was examined for greenhouse and field grown plants. No allelopathic effect was observed for lupine plants treated with tall fescue leachates. The nitrogen-fixing potential measured by nodule dry weight and acetylene reduction rates was not significantly affected by either tall fescue turf or low nitrogen fertilization. Both the greenhouse and field studies showed that the growth, sexual reproductive allocation, and number of inflorescences were significantly reduced when lupine plants were grown with tall fescue. The root length densities of tall fescue turf and lupine monoculture were measured. The tall fescue turf had 20 times higher root length density (20 cm cm-3 soil) than the lupine plants monoculture. This suggests that intense competition at the root zone may be a dominant factor which limits the growth of the lupine plants. The reproductive characters of the lupine plants was improved by phosphorus fertilization. Transplanting of older lupine plants into the turf substantially alleviated the tall fescue turf competitive effect.

scholarly journals Root Dynamics of Muskmelon Transplants as Affected by Nursery Irrigation

2002 ◽  
Vol 127 (3) ◽  
pp. 337-342 ◽  
Author(s):  
José A. Franco ◽  
Daniel I. Leskovar
Keyword(s):  
Root Growth ◽  
Root Development ◽  
Root Length ◽  
Root Elongation ◽  
Root Length Density ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Growth Chamber ◽  
Root Dynamics ◽  
Transplant Shock ◽  
Uppermost Layer

Containerized `Lavi' muskmelon [Cucumis melo L. (Reticulatus Group)] transplants were grown in a nursery with two irrigation systems: overhead irrigation (OI) and flotation irrigation (FI). Initially, root development was monitored during a 36-day nursery period. Thereafter, seedling root growth was monitored either in transparent containers inside a growth chamber, or through minirhizotrons placed in the field. During the nursery period, OI promoted increased early basal root growth, whereas FI promoted greater basal root elongation between 25 and 36 days after seeding (DAS). At 36 DAS leaf area, shoot fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW), and shoot to root ratio were greater for OI than for FI transplants, while root length and FWs and DWs were nearly the same. Total root elongation in the growth chamber was greater for FI than for OI transplants between 4 and 14 days after transplanting. Similarly, the minirhizotron measurements in the field showed a greater root length density in the uppermost layer of the soil profile for FI than for OI transplants. Overall, muskmelon transplants had greater root development initially when subjected to overhead compared to flotation irrigation in the nursery. However, during late development FI transplants appeared to have a greater capacity to regenerate roots, thus providing an adaptive mechanism to enhance postplanting root development and to withstand transplant shock in field conditions. At harvest, root length density and yield were closely similar for the plants in the two transplant irrigation treatments.

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