Phosphate uptake by white clover (Trifolium repens L.) genotypes with contrasting root morphology

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) response curves were established for white clover genotypes with either relatively long, fine roots (LFR), or relatively short, thick roots (STR) in a glasshouse experiment. The LFR genotype had smaller average root diameter, greater specific root length (SLR, cm mg‐1 root dry weight), longer roots and more branched roots than the STR genotype. Root dry weight of the genotypes was identical across all P levels. P uptake per unit root mass was higher in the LFR genotype, resulting in greater P acquisition and higher shoot dry weight yields than for the STR genotype. We concluded that development of white clovers with high SRL and frequent root branching could contibute to an improvement in the efficiency of phosphate use in pastoral farming.