ARS | Publication request: Can Crop Root Systems Be Managed?

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: September 10, 2003
Publication Date: November 1, 2003
Citation: Mcmichael, B.L., Upchurch, D.R. 2003. Can crop root systems be managed [abstract]? American Society of Agronomy. 2003 CDROM.

Technical Abstract: The growth and development of the root system of crop plants is under genetic control but will be modified by the environment. The influence of environmental factors such as soil temperature, soil water, and soil pathogen activity can have a significant impact on the development of not only the root system but the productivity of the whole plant. Many management strategies are aimed at improving overall production efficiency of the crop whil not specifically targeting the function of the root system and performs vital functions relative to the development of the whole plant, strategies aimed at efficiently manageing the root system should improve plant productivity. Management options for improving root development will be discussed and linked to the overall crop management system.