Environmental and Cultivation Factors Affect the Morphology, Architecture and Performance of Root Systems in Soilless Grown Plants

Summary

This narrative review synthesises recent scientific evidence on how environmental and cultivation factors influence root system development and function in soilless culture systems—a rapidly expanding horticultural sector. The authors examine eleven key factors affecting roots confined in soilless growing media, including nutrient management, temperature control, oxygenation, and beneficial microorganism associations. The review concludes that optimisation of water and nutrient supply, rootzone conditions, and plant–microbe interactions can enhance yields and proposes emerging technologies and smart agriculture approaches to deepen understanding of root–shoot communication in soilless systems.

Regional applicability

Soilless horticulture is widely practiced in the United Kingdom and internationally, particularly for protected and commercial vegetable and ornamental production. These findings are directly applicable to UK commercial horticulture, though implementation will depend on specific crops, infrastructure, and regional climate conditions.

Key measures

Root morphology, root architecture, root system performance, yield, water and nutrient uptake efficiency, plant–microorganism interactions

Outcomes reported

A review of how environmental and cultivation factors (root restriction, nutrient solution, irrigation frequency, rootzone temperature, oxygenation, vapour pressure deficit, lighting, pH, root exudates, CO₂, and beneficiary microorganisms) affect root morphology, architecture, and performance in soilless culture systems. The review identifies optimisation strategies and emerging technologies for improved root management.

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