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Greenhouse Studies On Root Growth And Morphology, Julie K. Chard

Techniques and Instruments

For studies of root growth and morphology, an ideal containerized plant culture system should provide: 1) adequate nutrients, water and oxygen; 2) appropriate mechanical impedance to root elongation; 3) adequate depth to prevent root binding; and 4) easy separation of roots from the root-zone substrate.

Columnar containers are preferable to pots because they can support deep root growth while taking up less bench space. Many columns can be arranged within a small area, such as a gas-exchange chamber, thereby maximizing the number of treatments and replications in a given space.

Standard potting substrates typically contain sphagnum peat mixed with perlite …