Minirhizotron as an In-Situ Tool for Assessing Sugarcane Root System Growth and Distribution

Abstract

Crops root information is necessary in modern agriculture to provide information that promotes water and nutrient use efficiency. The minirhizotron is a non-destructive root method and it allows monitoring root growth along time and seasons. In this context, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview about minirhizotron method use for root growth and distribution assessment in sugarcane crop in irrigated and rainfed areas. We presented information in order to improve minirhizotron methodology and its use by providing highlights concerning critical aspects. Among critical points, the tube installation, tube protection, scanning-schedule and data analysis are addressed. Our information could help future users to acquire high-quality data with proper efficiency