A root crown, also known as the root collar or root neck, is that part of a root system from which a stem arises. Since roots and stems have quite different vascular anatomies, major vascular changes take place at this point.
Root-crown temperature has been found to affect plant growth and physiology in a number of ways. [1] Root crowns need to be exposed and 'breathe'; this is one way that some plants take in oxygen.
A number of pests and diseases affect specifically this part of the plant, including root-crown rot (or root-crown fungus) [2] and a number of species of root-crown weevil.
The root crown area usually appears swollen, tapered, constricted or very thin - as well as a combination of these. The area of the root crown is usually located around or at the soil level and can be vaguely or clearly apparent. [3]
References
- ^ Schwarz, Meier (1972). "Influence of root crown temperature on plant development". Plant and Soil. 37 (2): 435–439. doi: 10.1007/BF02139988. S2CID 420759.
- ^ Root and Crown Rots. University of Wisconsin Garden Facts.
- ^ "Root crown".
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