A technique is described which permits the determination of root penetration, distribution, and density with minimal disturbance to the plant. A small diameter tunnel is made in the soil and fitted tightly with a glass or transparent plastic tube. A fiber optics probe is used to observe the arrival of roots at the wall of the tube at various depths and to estimate their distribution and density. The probe consists of a light source and fiber bundle for illumination, a coherent fiber bundle for image transfer to the surface, a right angle viewing attachment at the objective end, and adjustable lenses.