Study on Root Characteristics of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) Genotypes for Moisture Stress

The size and distribution of root system of Sugarcane genotypes in response to moisture stress during formative stage at Agricultural Research Station, Basanthpur, Medak, Telanagana was found significant. Deeper root system as seen in the form of rope roots was observed only with the varieties, Co 95020, Co 87025 and Co 94012 indicating their ability to explore more soil space. The other root parameters viz., shoot to root ratio, root volume, root length and root dry weight were significantly high for Co 95020 and low for Co 8014 categorizing them as drought tolerant and drought susceptible varieties, respectively.