Themes > Science > Earth Sciences > Geology > Soils > Soil Morphology > Soil Morphology > Roots

Plant roots give evidence of the plant root activity and the penetration. For example, it is important to record if roots only penetrate through cracks, are retarded by waterlogged layers or cemented layers. Other reasons for limited root penetration can be soil compaction or the absence of nutrients. If there is no obstacle to root growth in the soil the roots may be distributed evenly in a soil. It is important to record the quantity and diameter of roots. 

Table 9.8.1. Classification of roots.

Root quantity classes

Per unit area

Very few

< 0.2

Moderately few

0.2 to 1

Few

< 1

Common

1 to < 5

Many

>= 5

Size classes of roots

Diameter in mm

Very fine

< 1

Fine

1 - 2

Medium

2 - 5

Coarse

5 - 10

Very coarse

> 10


Information provided by: http://www.soils.wisc.edu