42.3. Rooting Depth and Root Zone Storage Capacity

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define rooting depth.

   Hint

   Think about where the majority of roots are found in plants.

2. 2.

   What does RZSC stand for?

   Hint

   It's a measure of water storage in the root zone.

3. 3.

   What is rooting depth?

   • The depth of soil under a plant
   • The depth to which roots extend
   • The amount of water a plant can absorb

   Hint

   Think of where the roots find moisture.

4. 4.

   Root zone storage capacity is calculated by what formula?

   • RZSC = FC - PWP
   • RZSC = AW × RD
   • RZSC = RD + FC

   Hint

   Remember how to calculate water storage.

5. 5.

   If a plant has a rooting depth of 1 meter and the available water in the soil is 150 mm/m, what is the root zone storage capacity?

   Hint

   Remember to use the RZSC formula correctly.

6. 6.

   Discuss how understanding the relationship between rooting depth and root zone storage capacity can influence irrigation practices in drought-prone areas.

   Hint

   Think about how plants utilize water and what they need to survive.