Root system of common bean cultivars as response of liming

Abstract

Root growth is genetically controlled and the variability among cultivars and soil factors, such as Al toxicity and low Ca and Mg contents, can damage it. The objective of this study was to evaluate root growth and shoot growth of bean cultivars in response to liming. The experiment was carried out in pots with 13 dm³ of soil, in greenhouse until 43 days after the emergence of the plants. The experimental design was a completely randomized block, in a factorial scheme 4x4, with four doses of line (0, 1.59, 3.18 and 4.48 t ha^-1), four bean cultivars (Campeão 1, Carioca, FT-Bonito and Pérola), and four replications. Pérola cultivar presents a root system more tolerant to low base saturation in comparison to the others. The maximum root growth occurred in base saturation values around 43% for Campeão 1, Carioca and Pérola cultivars. Under high acidity conditions, bean cultivars reduce root diameter and increase root length. Liming improves the root system growth and the aerial parts growth of the cultivars.