Root pressure
The active force generated by plant roots that pushes water and dissolved minerals upward through the xylem vessels, ensuring nutrient transport independently of transpiration.
Также говорят: root exudation, hydrostatic root pressure
Root pressure acts as the primary mechanism for water and nutrient uptake when transpiration rates are low, such as during the night or in humid environments. It ensures that essential minerals reach all parts of the plant even when leaf stomata are closed.
Understanding this process is crucial for effective irrigation management. Growers should aim for consistent soil moisture, as drought conditions significantly inhibit root pressure, leading to nutrient deficiencies, particularly of calcium. A common error in greenhouse management is maintaining excessive humidity at night, which prevents transpiration and can lead to water logging, as plants cannot effectively manage the uptake driven by root pressure alone.