roots vs leafs
- To: "Pumkin List"
- Subject: roots vs leafs
- From: r*
- Date: Fri, 4 Dec 1998 09:30:35 -0800
Brock, There is a balance between the leaves and the roots that is
reguired for optimum growth and health of plant. Most plant people
consider 50% root area and 50% leaf area to be best for most plants. After
the roots are developed if you reduce the leaf area too much a portion of
the roots die back due to lack of nutrients. When I prune shrubs I figure
I can fudge this ratio to 60/40 without harm. If I go beyond that I have a
loss of growth and the plants set there till next season. There are some
exceptions, like forsythia, they handle 70/30 without problems. I seem to
be getting alot of water absorption thru the main stems, you might consider
burying the leaf stems deeper, this would also add support to the leaf
stems for people having trouble with them falling and splitting. From my
experience with the plants I think you could bury those stems all the way
to the leaf. It also should be easier for the plant to translocate water
at the upper level than have to move it from root depth up first. Your
surface area on the leaf stems would be as great or greater than the roots.
The roots will still be there for water and chemical nutrient absorption.
You already have the stem area, this would be extra water that is not
being conducted into plant right now. It would not add any stress to the
plant. Have Fun, Roger
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