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IMAGE: Twelve wheat genotypes and six corn genotypes were grown in a greenhouse at the University Park campus. Large growth containers, or mesocosms, were set up with a compacted soil layer. view more
Credit: Hannah Schneider, Penn State
A previously unknown root trait allows some cereal plants to grow deeper roots capable of punching through dry, hard, compacted soils, according to Penn State researchers, who suggest that harnessing the inherited characteristic could lead to crops better able to deal with a changing climate. This discovery bodes well for American and global agriculture because the trait helps corn, wheat and barley grow deeper roots, which is important for drought tolerance, nitrogen efficiency and carbon sequestration, said Jonathan Lynch, distinguished professor in plant science. Breeding for this trait should be helpful in developing new crops for climate mitigation.