Root Spatial Distribution of Field-grown Maize and Millets

Abstract

The development of two-dimensional root distribution was studied with the generally-used profile wall method for field-grown cereal plants. Root length density was determined in each 5X5 cm area of a 1 X 1 m profile wall transverse to plant rows. Foxtail millet had a type of root system in which the root length density decreased exponentially with distance from row both vertically and horizontally. Barnyard millet had a shallow and broad rooting zone in which the root length density was high and considerably uniform. The other species fell in between these extremes. The order of foxtail millet, maize, common millet, pearl millet, adlay, barnyard millet, based on root distribution patterns, was in accordance with the decreasing order of sensitivity to waterlogging. The possible relationship of root spatial distribution to ecological habits was indicated. © 1992, CROP SCIENCE SOCIETY OF JAPAN. All rights reserved.