Physiological Aspects of the Effect of Continuous Soil Aeration on Plant Growth

The Morphogenetic Effect of Oxygen on Roots

“…The results of investigations on .the effect of aeration on root branching are not in accordance. There are observations indicating increased number of laterals in nonaerated water cultures (7), whereas other reports describe decreasing root branching with decreasing 02 level (6,10,16,18).…”

“…Aeration as a factor influencing root growth has been investigated repeatedly (8, 12,16). Root elongation has been found to be especially sensitive to aeration, 02 being the essential and morphogenetically effective part of the air (9,15).…”

The Development and Distribution of the Endodermis and an Associated Oxidase System in Monocotyledonous Plants

“…Loehwing (1934) has pointed out that there is an increase in size of organs and nutrient absorption and an increase in wall thickening of all cells in roots of continuously aerated plants. There is a danger in assuming that suberin is the only substance deposited in endodermal and wound tissues.…”

The Effect of Aeration on Growth of the Tomato in Nutrient Solution

“…LOEHWING (10), working with the sunflower and soybean in soil and sand cultures, found that aeration, providing less than 10 liters of air per kilogram of soil or sand per day caused early rapid growth and produced taller and heavier plants; it also resulted in larger root systems, more rapid nutrient absorption, and a much increased total weight. When more than 10 9.…”

“…When more than 10 9. Solutions periodically renewed but continuously circulated, and aerated by air which is forced in bv the circulation mechanism.…”