Summary
Two experiments are described in which a comparison was made of differences in phosphorus contents, dry matter production and root growth between a semi-dwarf wheat (Israel M68) and a standard height cultivar (Olympic).
In the first experiment, using soil as a support medium, Olympic had higher root dry weight and root to shoot ratios, but lower root and shoot phosphorus contents, than Israel M68.
In the second experiment, using solution culture technique, Olympic had higher root dry weights and root to shoot ratios, but there was no cultivar difference in either root or shoot phosphorus content. This suggests an improved ability in the semi-dwarf wheat to explore the soil system.
In both experiments the rate of uptake of phosphorus, when calculated per unit root fresh weight, was highest with Israel M68. Root measurements in a later experiment (Experiment 2a) indicated similar total fresh weights for both cultivars, but on a unit fresh weight basis, the semi-dwarf cultivar had a greater root number, root area and lateral root volume. Although further studies to clarify the situation are necessary, these differences may be associated with the enhanced grain yield response to superphosphate of some semi-dwarf wheats when compared to standard height cultivars. re]19751104
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Palmer, B., Jessop, R.S. Some aspects of wheat cultivar response to applied phosphate. Plant Soil 47, 63–73 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00010368
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00010368