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Potential Distributions in the Soil-Root System¹

A more complete theoretical understanding of water transport in the soil-root system depends upon considering the combined effects of the root tissue and soil on water flow. Therefore, equations were developed to describe the steady flow of water in a cylindrical soil-root system. The main objective was to calculate water potential distributions in the root cortex as well as in the surrounding soil. Results indicate that there will be small water potential gradients in the soil relative to those in the root, with the possible exception of very dry soil conditions. An important implication of the present study is that models designed to predict the pattern in which roots extract water from soil will have to consider the rate-limiting aspect of the root tissue.

Key Words: Equations • Water extraction • Plant tissue • Root cortex • Water capacity • Conductivity • Numerical solution

² Alumni assistant professor, Civil Engineering Dep., Auburn Univ., Auburn, AL 36830.

Received for publication February 6, 1975.