Root Substrate - The University of Vermont根基-佛蒙特大学.pptVIP

Root Substrates Three Basic Types of Root Systems: Root Functions Anchoring the plant (citrus tap root) Absorbing water and minerals from the soil and transporting them to the stem Food Storage (Carrot) Aeration (Black Mangrove and Cypress; pneumatophores) Support (Red Mangrove and Corn; Proproots) Root Systems Consist of: Primary Roots Secondary Roots Root Hairs Root Hairs Root hairs are tubular extensions of epidermal cells Increase root surface area Greatly increases plants ability to absorb water and minerals from the soil Link to Website Root Substrate Functions Reservoir for plant nutrients Hold plant available water Provide means for gas exchange Provide anchorage for the plant Use of Field Soil in GH Used where plants are produced in in-ground beds (some cut flowers, some greenhouse tomatoes) –issues with disease build-up Many greenhouses are located in areas without a good supply of field soil for potted plants (even if available – environmentally unsound) This lecture will focus mostly on soilless media for the greenhouse production of bedding plants and ornamentals Root Substrate Properties Stability of Organic Matter Carbon-to-Nitrogen Ratio Bulk Density Moisture Retention and Aeration Cation Exchange Capacity pH Organic Matter Stability You want minimal decomposition of organic matter during the production cycle Decomposition reduces substrate volume and produces finer texture – reducing water holding capacity and aeration simultaneously Exceptions: in ground vegetable and flower production – in this case organic matter breakdown is acceptable – organic matter is replenished on an annual basis C:N Ratio You must take this ratio into consideration when managing organic matter C:N ratio should be 30:1 or less – when more carbon is present microorganisms will use the nitrogen from fertilizer Microorganisms that break down the organic matter and ultimately make nutrients available for plant growth require N for protein Initially they may actu