Rhizosphere and Phyllosphere
In our quest to maintain the healthiest turf, we often focus on the visible parts of the plant. However, there’s a whole world beneath the surface and also a largely unseen world on the plant surface that plays a crucial role in plant health: the rhizosphere and phylosphere. Let’s explore their significance in bowling green management.
The Phyllosphere: A World on the Surface
The phyllosphere refers to the total surface area of a plant, which serves as a habitat for a diverse range of microorganisms. These microbes can have significant effects on plant health, influencing everything from disease resistance to growth rates.
The phyllosphere can be further subdivided into:
- Caulosphere: This refers to the stem surfaces of the plant. Microbes here can help protect the plant from stem-boring insects and diseases.
- Phylloplane: This is the surface of the leaf. Microorganisms in this area play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and can protect leaves from pathogens.
- Anthosphere: This encompasses the flower surfaces. Microbes here can influence pollination and the plant’s reproductive success. This is important in the business of grass seed production.
There is a 4th subdivision called the Carposphere, but this is largely related to fruit surfaces, so not directly applicable to us as greenkeepers.
The Rhizosphere and Laimosphere: The Hidden Universe Below Ground
Beneath the soil surface, the rhizosphere – the region of soil directly influenced by root secretions and associated soil microorganisms – plays a pivotal role in plant health. The rhizosphere is a hotbed of microbial activity, with bacteria, fungi, and other organisms interacting with plant roots in ways that can significantly impact plant health and growth.
Adjacent to the rhizosphere is the laimosphere, the soil surrounding the roots. While not as directly influenced by root secretions as the rhizosphere, the laimosphere still plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and water movement.
Understanding these microhabitats and their roles can help us manage our turf more effectively. By fostering beneficial microbial communities in these areas, we can enhance plant health, improve resistance to stresses, and ultimately, maintain healthier turf.
