Abstract

ABSTRACT

FURATA, TOKUJI. 1982. Influences on roots determine transplanting success. Am. Nurseryman 156(7): 65-69.

Developing a root system soon after transplanting that will support plant growth is a problem. At least five separate and distinct growth events are involved: 1) initiation of new roots on roots that were severed when the plant was dug or when the roots were pruned, 2) initiation of new lateral roots on roots that have not been severed, 3) growth of roots that were not severed, 4) growth of newly initiated roots, 3) branching of newly initiated roots (initiation of lateral roots on newly initiated roots). These events do not occur at the same time, and they do not always occur in the same sequence, except that new roots must be initiated before they grow. The order of the events may vary with the season. If the season is such that unsevered roots are not growing, initiation of laterals on severed roots may occur first. If the season favors rapid root growth, the unsevered ones grow before the severed ones initiate laterals. Successful plant establishment does not depend on all five events, nor does it depend on the proper sequence of events. Successful establishment depends on enough of the events occuring to ensure a large root system.