Root-Soil Interactions

 

Our research focuses on soil-root interactions and soil properties, environmental factors, and root traits shape rhizosphere processes. Further, we are interested in understanding how root and rhizosphere traits affect C and nutrient cycling and nutrient solubilization for plant stress adaptation. We use system-based approaches that combine stable and radioisotope techniques with rhizosphere imaging to study the spatiotemporal dynamics of rhizodeposition and its influence on nutrient solubilization and uptake. In addition, we combine gas exchange measurements and chemical analyses with microbiological methods. By this, we aim to identify traits and mechanisms that enhance efficient nutrient uptake and the resource-efficient utilization of C at the small scale, while also contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices that improve resource use efficiency and minimize nutrient losses at the landscape scale. 

The current focus of our research lays on: 

1. P and N acquisition depending on genotypic differences (such as rhizodeposition, root anatomy or root physiologyin different cropping systems 
2. Factors influencing rhizodeposition and its role in in crop resistance to nutrient and water deficiencies​ 
3. The role of plant roots on C and N cycling and retention in eroded soils ​​