Age-related changes in root dynamics of a novel perennial grain crop

Abstract

Background

Standing root biomass stocks are larger in the perennial grain intermediate wheatgrass (IWG; Thinopyrum intermedium [Host] Barkworth and Dewey) than annual spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). However, previous studies have not separated root growth from root decomposition, which presents a significant gap in our understanding of how roots can contribute to soil organic carbon (C) accrual or other soil properties through time.

Methods

We used paired sequential coring and root ingrowth cores to measure standing root stock, new root production, root decomposition, and decomposed root C and N from 0 to 15 cm soil depth of 1-year-old IWG (IWG-1), 2-year-old IWG (IWG-2), and annual spring wheat.

Results

Standing root stock was 3.2–6.5 and 6.3–9.9 times higher in IWG-1 and IWG-2 than wheat. Total root production was 1.7 times greater in IWG-1 than IWG-2. Conversely, root decomposition almost doubled from 1.39 to 2.43 kg m⁻³ between IWG-1 and IWG-2.

Conclusions

In IWG, decreased root production and increased root decomposition with stand age suggest a change in growth strategy that could reduce the contribution of root-derived C to stabilized soil C pools as IWG stands age.