Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 6, 2026

Isolation and Analysis of Microbial Communities in Soil, Rhizosphere, and Roots in Perennial Grass Experiments
Published on: July 24, 2018
Plant-water relationships in a mixed grassland
1Plant Ecology Department, University of Saskatchewan, S7N OWO, Saskatoon, Sask., Canada.
Abstract:
Seasonal and diurnal patterns of osmotic and leaf water potential of several mixed grassland species were studied. The osmotic potential (OP) of Agropyron dasystachyum ranged from about-15 bars early in the growing season to about-30 bars during late summer droughts. Seasonal trends in A. smithii and Koeleria cristata were similar. Minimum osmotic potentials of Eurotia lanata and Artemisia frigida were-42 and-35 bars, respectively. The mesophytes Geum triflorum and Lomatium foeniculaceum did not exhibit OP below-20 bars. Soil water, particularly in the 0-15 cm layer, strongly influenced OP and leaf water potential (WP). Seasonal trends in WP were similar to OP. Under low stress, WP was about 10 bars greater than OP; under high stress WP was equal or even lower then OP (negative turgor). Diurnal fluctuations in WP were greater than those of OP when low stress conditions existed. Diurnal changes in potential were related to global radiation which was an index of atmospheric evaporative demand. Ecological implications of water status are discussed.
More Related Videos
10:19A CO2 Concentration Gradient Facility for Testing CO2 Enrichment and Soil Effects on Grassland Ecosystem Function
Published on: November 21, 2015
10:16Design and Operation of a Continuous 13C and 15N Labeling Chamber for Uniform or Differential, Metabolic and Structural, Plant Isotope Labeling
Published on: January 16, 2014
Related Concept Videos
Responses to Drought and Flooding
Epiphytes, Parasites, and Carnivores
Water and Mineral Acquisition
The Roles of Bacteria and Fungi in Plant Nutrition
Adaptations that Reduce Water Loss
Responses to Salt Stress