Root Distribution of ‘Tifblue’ Rabbiteye Blueberry as Influenced by Irrigation, Incorporated Peatmoss, and Mulch

Abstract

A field study was conducted to evaluate individual and collective influences of 3 soil moisture-supplementing practices (irrigation, incorporated peatmoss, and mulching) on root system development in ‘Tifblue’ rabbiteye blueberries ( Vaccinium ashei Reade). Plants that received no water-supplementing treatments died within 3 years. Root growth was least in plants receiving only one of the 3 treatments and greatest in plants receiving all 3. Ranking of individual treatments on root dry weight production was mulch > incorporated peatmoss > irrigation. Mulching resulted in uniform root distribution from the plant crown outward, while peatmoss tended to concentrate the root system near the crown area. Incorporating peatmoss concentrated roots at the 30- to 45-cm depth, while mulching tended to concentrate the roots in the upper 15 cm of soil. In a sandy, well-aerated soil, the major factor influencing root distribution appears to be soil moisture.