A guide to observing, recording and image analysis of spatial root distribution and root growth in the rhizobox

Abstract

Plants alter root distribution (root system architecture) to acquire water and nutrients that are spatial-temporally heterogeneously distributed in the soil. To understand the physiological functions of roots, root growth and root distribution at the whole root level as well as the single root level must be known. Here, we explain the essence of the “rhizobox method,” which enables obtaining both destructive and non-destructive information on root system architecture with selection criteria for methods, equipment, and software for image analysis. We aim to describe this manuscript as readable for people beginning root research.