Functional root trait?based classification of cover crops to improve soil physical properties

Cover crop use is a well-established soil conservation technique and has been proven effective for erosion control remediation in many arable systems. Whereas the obvious protection mechanism of cover crops occurs through canopy, plant roots perform multiple functions. It important to consider functions delivered by different root systems order increase uptake sustainable water management. A classification up 0.6 m deep based on functional traits will allow us better study their potential role bio-engineering, structural improvements hydrological services resource protection. This was glasshouse experiment, using large 1-m3 containers filled with loam soil, loose topsoil compacted subsoil, which seven species (oat, rye, buckwheat, vetch, radish, mustard, phacelia) were grown 90 days. Root cores taken at end washed imaged determine (total length density, average diameter, specific surface area) both subsoil layers. identity determined from distinctive combination single related three variables, representing improvement, runoff mitigation control. The results showed that total area correlate well aggregate stability macroporosity. Buckwheat, mustard rye had significantly greater stability, as 10, 8 7% microporosity, respectively, interface layer when compared bare soil. Furthermore, diameter negatively correlated macroporosity, indicating fine system are more beneficial creating pore-space than those thicker taproots. Selecting right therefore crucial improve health. Highlights Roots largely unexplored frontier bio-engineering agricultural soils. Combinations identified most characteristics. finer enhancing porosity. structure.