RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Tree Root Ecology in the Urban Environment and Implications for a Sustainable Rhizosphere
JF Arboriculture & Urban Forestry (AUF)
FD International Society of Arboriculture
SP 193
OP 205
DO 10.48044/jauf.2010.026
VO 36
IS 5
A1 Susan D. Day
A1 P. Eric Wiseman
A1 Sarah B. Dickinson
A1 J. Roger Harris
YR 2010
UL http://auf.isa-arbor.com/content/36/5/193.abstract
AB This review examines current understandings of how the belowground characteristics of urban settings affect tree roots as well as how tree roots contribute to biogeochemical processes in this belowground environment. Soil characteristics common to the urban environment include soil compaction and other physical impediments to root exploration, elevated pH, altered temperature and moisture patterns, and the presence of contaminants. These conditions may alter the growth dynamics, morphology, and physiology of roots. At the same time, roots have a profound effect on the soil environment, with trees directing 40%–73% of assimilated carbon below ground. Urban rhizosphere ecology is a topic of renewed interest for research not only because of its critical role in the urban ecosystem, but also because of its role in global environmental issues. In addition to its obvious contribution to aboveground growth, root exploration of the soil environment can influence environmental sustainability through root contributions to soil structure and drainage. Root influence is further mediated by the intimate role of roots in soil biological activity and thus carbon storage and nutrient cycling. Current advances and implications for emerging research are discussed.