Preliminary investigations with Arabica coffee in a root observations laboratory in Kenya

A root observation laboratory was used to investigate the seasonal changes in extension growth of fine roots of Arabica coffee over a 2-year period. Some root extension took place throughout but, as with shoot growth, rate of root extension was greater at some periods than at others and in a number of cases it appeared to precede shoot extension. There was little effect of cropping or irrigation on fine root extension. Most fine white roots remained unsuberized for up to two years but some were seen to die and decay during this time. The growth correlations of roots, stems and leaves over an 8-month period are autlined and briefly discussed