Root Growth Subsequent to Transplanting in Plug-Grown Cabbage Seedlings

Abstract

For analysis of root growth in plug-grown seedlings just after transplanting, cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) seedlings were transplanted in pots filled with sand and grown for two weeks under controlled environment in a phytotron glass room. Subsequent growth of new roots sticked out of a root clump was examined by image analysis of the root system dug out from sand. The delay of transplanting depressed elongation and development of vigorous “anchoring” roots after transplanting, although volume of new roots was supplemented with a rapid increase in fine roots by branching frequently. Thus, the seedlings overgrown in a plug tray could not become deeply-rooted plants after transplanting, and they might be intolerant of drastic changes in root environment. Coating the tray with a copper compound for preventing formation of a root clump improved subsequent root growth of overgrown seedlings to some extent.