Root Morphological Characteristics of Field-grown Tomatoes1

Abstract

Total root biomass of 23 field-grown cultivars of tomato ( Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) was partitioned into basal-root and taproot components during Fall 1980 and Spring 1981. Weights of basal roots (originating within the lower one cm of the hypocotyl and one cm of the upper taproot) differed among cultivars during both seasons. For each cultivar, basal roots contributed the largest proportion of the total root biomass. No difference in taproot weights occurred among cultivars. Adventitious roots were minimal and were not measured. ‘Market Hybrid 58’ and ‘Casino Royale’ had larger total and basal root weights than ‘Burgis’, ‘Florida 1A’, and ‘Florida IB’ during both seasons. Stem diameter was significantly correlated with total and basal root weights. Results suggest that root morphological differences among tomato cultivars are restricted to basal roots.