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Rhizosheaths on Mesophytic Grasses 1
Author(s) -
Duell R. W.,
Peacock G. R.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
crop science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.76
H-Index - 147
eISSN - 1435-0653
pISSN - 0011-183X
DOI - 10.2135/cropsci1985.0011183x002500050036x
Subject(s) - mesophyte , biology , perennial plant , lolium perenne , secale , agronomy , poaceae , botany , growing season , deciduous
Rhizosheaths, soil cylinders on nonbranching roots, have been described on desert grasses. The objectives of this investigation were to determine the frequency of rhizosheaths on mesophytic grasses, assess their ontogenetic development, and evaluates oil conditions, management, and seasonal effects on rhizosheath formation. Rhizosheaths were found on many species of mesophytic grasses growing in diverse soils and moisture conditions. Ontogenetic differences were found. Seedlings attained a critical size before rhizosheaths were discernible on nodal roots. Rhizosheaths were never found on seminal roots. Rhizosheaths persisted through seed development of cereal rye ( Secale cereale L.), but deteriorated with heading of perennial ryegrass ( Lolium perenne L.). Rhizosheaths were found on both cool and warm‐season perennial grasses occurring as either crop or weedy species. Rhizosheaths occurred in both high and low fertility conditions.