Abstract
The aim of this study was to relate root system structure to function in Betula pendula. Knowledge of root system type and response to nitrogen and phosphorus is important in selecting genotypes for optimising tree establishment on upland soil. From an initial screening experiment where 30 genotypes were assessed, 2 were selected with contrasting root characteristics. Genotype 1 had few fine roots whereas genotype 2 had many fine roots. The two genotypes did not differ significantly in their growth response to contrasting levels of N supply, but genotype 1 appeared to be more responsive to mycorrhizal infection under conditions of low P supply. Root: shoot ratio and the proportion of roots less than 1 mm diameter may be useful traits for screening birch genotypes.
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Mackie-Dawson, L.A., Lavender, E.A., Atkinson, D. (1998). The effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and mycorrhizal infection on root and shoot growth of two contrasting genotypes of Betula pendula Roth. In: Box, J.E. (eds) Root Demographics and Their Efficiencies in Sustainable Agriculture, Grasslands and Forest Ecosystems. Developments in Plant and Soil Sciences, vol 82. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-5270-9_14
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-5270-9_14
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