The Structure and Function of White Clover Root Systems

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter provides information on the structure, development, function, and genetics of white clover root systems and the effects of environmental variables. The aspects of white clover root system structure and function that could be advantageous to total plant growth include—namely, the ability of old brown roots to produce new roots in spring; strong nodal root production that compensates for the death of the seedling taproot; the ability of root systems to be tolerant of, and recover quickly after, defoliation; and the ability of nodules to resume activity after drought or cold stress. Nodal root production is of great importance in ensuring vegetative persistence, because branch stolon growth is only successful if root establishment occurs at the node at which branching develops. However, some aspects of white clover root system structure and function can have a deleterious effect on plant growth and persistence.