Nonstructural Carbohydrates and Root Development in Blue Grama Seedlings

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine relationships between total nonstructural carbohydrates (TNC) and adventitious root development in blue grama [Bouteloua gracilis (H.B.K.) Lag. ex Steud.] seedlings. Levels of TNC were altered by use of shade and recovery treatments in full light. Seedling growth characteristics and TNC, N, and P concentrations were investigated in 5-week-old seedlings during a 3-day root growth test. Leaf mass, crown mass, total N, and total P were not significantly associated with production of adventitious roots. A decrease in amount of TNC in shoots and an increase in root mass indicated that 13% of the root mass was derived from TNC that had accumulated before the test. The percentages of leaf TNC and crown TNC utilized for growth of adventitious roots were 14 and 30, respectively. This study indicates that blue grama seedlings should be managed to maintain adequate levels of TNC. Utilization of TNC for rapid root growth could be an advantage where the soil surface dries rapidly after precipitation.