An Introduction To Plant Root Exudates
For centuries, plant root systems - their biology, function, and development, have been relatively mysterious. Studies in recent decades are helping us gain new understanding of how vital, complex, and active life is just below the surface.
Root exudates refer to a broad range of secretions and chemicals that are released into the rhizosphere (root zone). Exudates perform a number of functions, such as defending against intruding plants, bacteria, insects, and even communicating with symbiotic microbes. However, one of the most important functions of root exudates are their role in water and nutrient uptake.
As soil becomes wet, soil and water molecules bond. This bond can be broken by gravity, heat/evaporation, and by root exudates which then allow the root to uptake water and nutrients. This process is dictated by the plant as it responds to numerous factors like temperature, humidity, sunlight, disease, insects, as well as its own growth stage and development. Plants are not simply passive recipients, but are actively seeking to grow, mature, and thrive.
GrowStream™ is the world’s first plant-responsive irrigation system. GrowStream™ plant-responsive tubing is installed near the rootzone (similar to current SDI) and interacts with the plants’ root exudates. Once installed, GrowStream™ mimics wet soil… holding water and fertilizer until root exudates are present. Once exudates “break” the bond, water and fertilizer are released through the tube’s microporous surface - until the plant is satiated and stops producing exudates.
GrowStream™ delivers exactly what each plant needs, when they need it. This greatly reduces plant stress- significantly increasing plant-performance, yield, and dramatically reducing both water and fertiliser use.