Does Plant Root Architecture Respond To Potassium Under Water Stress? A Case From Rice Seedling Root Responses

In plants, roots sense the availability of potassium and water. This study examined the influence of potassium availability on root architecture and above-ground growth under water-deficit condition. We found that the growth of rice seedlings was further reduced by low potassium under water stress. We noted considerable reduction in the root projected area, maximum width and width-to-depth ratio. Furthermore, high potassium supply helped in sustaining the root top and bottom angles and prevented root steepness under mild water stress. However, high potassium availability did not result in better seedling growth. Root steepness was more influenced by water than potassium levels under severe water stress.