Root systems database
We already highlighted the reasons why we find it so important to study the hidden realm of roots, in our learn article about tree root systems. In it, we also went into some detail regarding our research into the subject, as well as some of our main takeaways, such as a helpful classification of the main dominant tree root system types which have been identified by quite a few different studies. Here they are:
Dominant taproot system
Dominant horizontal (or lateral) root system
Dominant heart root system
Invasive suckering root system
Our thorough research resulted in a detailed database featuring information on the roots of most of the fruit tree species present at the Orchard of Flavours botanical garden. Keep scrolling and you will find:
each species’ dominant root system
a drawing or picture of the dominant root system
links to a minimum of two sources which describe the root system for that species (we only mention a dominant root system if we found two concordant sources for any particular species)
the potential invasiveness of the root system
we also added some other relevant fields: environmental benefits (for instance nitrogen fixer, windbreaker), the water requirement (is it drought tolerant?) and if that tree can be heavily pruned or even coppiced.
Both this database and the article are ongoing projects and we really appreciate your help and comments, as well as any questions you might have regarding the subject. Please write us anytime to miguel@orchardofflavours.com
