“Smart” Roots Make Strategic Use of Water

“Smart” Roots Make Strategic Use of Water

Plants are able to modify their root hydraulics to maintain water status and strategically use soil water, according to a new study published today. When soils are drying, plants can decrease water use from topsoil whilst boosting uptake at greater depths.  Conversely, when topsoil is rewetted, the plants can instantly rearrange their water uptake to be more energy efficient by making maximum use of water near the surface and reducing uptake low…