Biomechanical properties of the growing and decaying roots of Cynodon dactylon

Root growth and decay may affect root reinforcement to soil erosion stability. We measured the effects of on tensile strength Cynodon dactylon roots considering different causes mortality common agricultural land conversion (i.e. burning herbicide application). applied three treatments C. grass: (i) duration (60, 120 180 days), (ii) after (30, 60, 120, 360 days) (iii) application (15, 30 60 days). The diameter, cellulose lignin contents samples (n = 303) in were measured. Tensile strength–diameter relations followed a negative power law regardless treatment (R2 > 0.6). increase median values due grass was consistent with contents. by caused significantly greater faster reduction than because plant can susceptibility slope instability during land. Measures safety are vital when using herbicides for weed clearance farmlands deterioration chemical composition (compared burning).