Principles of Nutrient Uptake From Fertilizer Bands II. Root Development in the Band¹

Abstract

Synopsis Growth stimulation of that part of the root system of a young corn plant in soil fertilized with both nitrogen and phosphorus was not produced by nitrogen fertilizer alone and to only a limited degree by phosphorus fertilizer alone. The greater growth was due to rapid development and branching of the smaller roots. Distribution of roots was not influenced by salt concentration within wide limits. Uptake of phosphorus was closely correlated with root development and volume of fertilized soil.