Analysis and simulation of the architecture of a growing root system: application to a comparative study of several tree seedlings

It has frequently been suggested that the shape and the spatial extension of root systems markedly influence the rate and patterns of nutrient uptake from the soil. Many nutrient and water uptake models have been proposed, based on root distribution patterns; for instance, spatial (mostly vertical) distribution of roots may be related to physical and chemical properties of successive soil layers as in the empirical model of Gerwitz and Pages (1973). Parameters describing extension, such as total root length, explored soil volume and rooting density, are frequently used.