Relation of Root Distribution to Water Uptake and Availability¹

Abstract

Synopsis A mathematical theory describing water uptake by nonuniform root systems and other factors is developed. The relative distribution of roots with depth and the water retaining and transmitting properties of the soil determine the main features of the water uptake pattern. Other factors such as the total number of roots are relatively unimportant. Good agreement is obtained between the theory and an actual uptake pattern for sorghum.