Summary
This field-based study investigated how nitrogen and nutrient fertilisation intensity shapes the belowground architecture of maize and wheat in two long-term experimental systems. By characterising root biomass, depth-wise stratification, and size-class composition under varying fertilisation regimes, the work provides empirical data on how nutrient management strategies influence root system development—a trait of importance for soil health, water uptake efficiency, and carbon inputs to soil.
UK applicability
Findings on cereal root responses to fertilisation intensity are relevant to UK arable practice, particularly for optimising nitrogen use efficiency and understanding soil structure development. However, Swiss soil types and climate conditions may differ from typical UK growing environments, warranting local validation.
Key measures
Root biomass (total, by depth layer), vertical distribution, root size classes, fertilisation intensity treatments
Outcomes reported
The study examined how fertilisation intensity influences root biomass, vertical distribution patterns, and size class composition in maize and wheat crops across two long-term field trials. Root architectural traits were quantified to assess responses to contrasting nutrient management regimes.
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