Root crown

Article summary

A root crown, also known as the root collar or root neck, is the part of a plant where the stem and the root system meet. Since roots and stems have quite different vascular anatomies, major vascular changes take place at this point. Root-crown temperature has been found to affect plant growth and physiology in a number of ways. Root crowns need to be exposed and 'breathe'; this is one way that some plants take in oxygen. A number of pests and diseases affect specifically this part of the plant, including root-crown rot (or root-crown fungus) and a number of species of root-crown weevil. The root crown area usually appears swollen, tapered, constricted or very thin - as well as a combination of these. The area of the root crown is usually located around or at the soil level and can be vaguely or clearly apparent.

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