ROOT STUDY OF THREE WHEAT VARIETIES AND THEIR RESISTANCE TO DROUGHT AND DAMAGE BY SOIL CRACKING

Abstract

Roots of three varieties, Thatcher, Cypress (Triticum aestivum), and Pelissier (T. durum), were studied in growth boxes with sloping glass face. Nine weekly measurements were taken of the roots showing on the glass face and of the top growth. After the plants matured, the soil was washed away and the roots air-dried and weighed. Regardless of the different moisture levels used the three varieties were found to have three distinct patterns of growth. These root patterns help to explain varietal differences in resistance to damage by soil cracking and to drought. The tests conducted illustrate advantages of using growth boxes with sloping glass face in a plant breeding program.