Timing matters: Distinct effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer application timing on root system architecture responses

ABSTRACT: Abstract

Aims

Although different plant foraging responses to the two macronutrients nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are well researched, the effect of timing of fertilizer application on root system architecture (RSA) remains largely unknown. We, therefore, aimed to understand how RSA of Hordeum vulgare L. responds to timing of N and P application.

Methods

Plants were grown in rhizoboxes for 38 days in nutrient‐poor soil and watered with nutrient solution, lacking either N or P, with the absent nutrient applied once either 2/3/4 weeks after sowing. Positive controls were continuously receiving N and P and a negative control receiving both N and P only after 3 weeks. We tracked root growth over time, measured plant biomass and nutrient uptake.

Results

Late N appli

SUBMITTER: van Duijnen R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10168076 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature