Roots BREATH.......

Although many people may not consider this idea often, a plant's root system and root fibers need oxygen. Unlike the plant's upper parts, which have ample access to gases and can photosynthesize, roots rely on cellular respiration and glucose from the leaves for their growth energy. This is why phloem vascular tissue facilitates the flow in both directions—it's like a glucose superhighway! Roots also store a significant amount of glucose during dormancy. However, cellular respiration requires oxygen, which is crucial for this metabolic process. Without oxygen, the energy yield is minimal, and problematic organic acids are produced. In our bodies, we generate a lot of lactic acid, but we breathe to sustain this metabolic process. We even have an autonomic nervous system to meet this cellular need! It is ESSENTIAL.

Indeed, only a few organisms on Earth lack this fundamental metabolic pathway. Glucose serves as the energy currency for life! Virtually all life forms absorb glucose, process it through a series of biochemical pathways, and generate ATP energy. This is true for most organisms. Plants form the base of the food web because they produce glucose! Cellular respiration is vital for nearly all life, which is why the KREB cycle is studied in health sciences, biology, microbiology, and related fields. It is entirely logical that plants have the same mitochondrial powerhouses in their living root cells and throughout their living tissues. As noted in my blog on photosynthesis, it stops at 25 degrees Celsius. However, plants continue to survive due to cellular respiration and their ability to access oxygen and stored glucose.

When we plant in soil that is overly wet, it limits the amount of oxygen the roots can absorb, which poses a significant problem for them. Unless you're dealing with subaquatic species, stagnant water can be fatal to plants. Gases can dissolve in liquids under pressure, which is why carbonated drinks exist. Although atmospheric pressure remains relatively constant and isn't something you can alter, you can and should focus on your soil and watering practices. Overwatering is detrimental; excessive moisture is harmful, which is why nearly every plant label in nurseries specifies well-draining soil. This is because roots need to breathe.

Roots play a crucial role in keeping trees stable, plants upright, and seeking nutrients in the soil. Plants form numerous symbiotic relationships with bacteria and fungi in the soil. Almost all soil bacteria are found within 4mm of a plant root. Like roots, they need oxygen to operate. Oxygen-deprived environments foster bacteria that are harmful to plants. These bacteria are often responsible for unpleasant odors in unturned compost. When root cells die, these bacteria attack your plants, leading to root rot, unexplained leaf drop, leaf browning, and poor flower development. These issues often stem from overwatering, poorly draining soils, or high clay content.

When planting, I always recommend digging a hole and filling it with water. If it doesn't drain relatively quickly, there's an issue. Hold on! You might need soil amendments, a physical drain, or a different plant choice. While some plant root systems thrive in excess water, most plants dislike it. There's more complexity to digging the hole, but this test is a reliable way to determine if your soil drains properly. Moisture around a new plant is crucial for activating root establishment and growth. However, nothing is worse than spending hundreds of dollars on a tree that initially seems resilient but eventually struggles and dies. This simple test can save you a lot of money and heartache, and it will let you know if your plant is likely to thrive and flourish!