Roots are truly amazing structures. They show great flexibility when exploring and exploiting soil substrates of uneven penetrability and availability of water and nutrients, yet also possess highly ordered architectures and anatomical features which may turn out to be as diagnostic of a species as any attribute based on aboveg-round parts. The book provides case studies of structural and functional qualities of roots of species from the biodiverse ecosystems of south west Western Australia, and views these in the context of survival in nutrient-poor soils, continued threat of fire and extreme seasonal fluctuations in temperature and water availability. Among a range of issues considered in the volume are examinations of: Roots in symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing organisms and mycorrhizal fungi Roots of parasitic species capable of extracting water and solutes from transport channels of their hosts Cluster roots adept at sourcing sparingly available nutrient resources, and Recently discovered cases amongst eucalypts whose specialised roots, in probable cooperation with microbes, generate compacted layers of clay and/or carbonates in their rooting catchments These examples, discussed alongside accounts of how roots and shoots interact in their respective inputs of photosynthate and water, comprise fascinating commentaries on how plants perform under exacting natural conditions and in comparison to the cossetted systems one finds under agriculture, horticulture, forestry and gardening. The book considers relevance of subject matter and conclusions to conservation and cultivation of plants.

Plants create a dynamic micro-biosphere in the soil, around the roots, called as ‘rhizosphere’, which harbors diverse number of microorganisms for sustaining their growth and development. A soil with diverse and multi-traits microbial communities is considered healthy to enhance crop productivity. In the last decades, rhizosphere biology has gained attention due to unraveling of new mechanisms, processes and molecules in the rhizosphere that contributes towards the promotion of plant productivity. The rhizospheric microbes and associated processes are being utilized for harnessing potential of soils in effective and sustainable functioning in the agro-ecosystems. Broadly, the book discusses rhizospheric microbes and their role in modulating functions of soil and crop plant. Specifically, it highlights conventional and modern aspects of rhizosphere microbes such as – microbiome in the rhizosphere, microbes as an indicator and promoter of soil health, rhizosphere microbes as biofertilizer, biostimulator and biofortifyer, microbial signaling in the rhizosphere, recent tools in deciphering rhizobiome, and regulatory mechanisms for commercialization of biofertilizer, biopesticide and biostimulator. The book is useful for agriculture scientist, biotechnologist, plant pathologist, mycologist, and microbiologist, farming community, scientist of R&D organization, as well as teaching community, researcher and student and policy maker.

Welcome to the enchanting "Green Realm," a literary voyage that unveils the hidden wonders of plant psychology. In this captivating exploration, readers embark on a journey beyond the visible spectrum of leaves and blossoms, delving into the intricate lives of plants. From the secret language encoded in leaves to the underground networking of roots, each chapter of this botanical odyssey offers a revelation, exposing the vibrant and dynamic world that exists beneath the surface of our familiar landscapes. As we traverse the chapters, we encounter the social lives of flowers, where intricate dynamics and surprising alliances shape the floral community. We witness the botanical romances, where plants express attraction and compete for pollination in a dance of loves and heartbreaks. The narrative unfolds with a discussion on photosynthetic personalities, offering insights into how different plants exhibit unique behaviors in response to environmental factors. The exploration takes an intriguing turn with a glimpse into the dark side of photosynthesis, delving into plant rivalries and conflicts that add a layer of drama to the botanical tapestry. Readers are then invited to decipher tree talk, unraveling the mysteries of communication between trees as leaves and branches convey messages in a silent but profound language. "Green Realm" doesn't stop at the terrestrial boundaries; it boldly ventures into the extraterrestrial with a chapter contemplating the possibility of plant life beyond Earth. The cosmic possibilities of extraterrestrial plant psychology are explored, sparking the imagination with the prospect of green alchemists flourishing on distant planets. The narrative concludes with a contemplation of the future of plant-human relationships in the chapter "Cultivating a New Perspective." Readers are encouraged to view plants in a new light, appreciating their complexity and acknowledging the transformative impact of understanding plant psychology. This literary journey into the heart of the "Green Realm" is not just a scientific exploration; it's an invitation to connect with the natural world on a profound level. With an empathetic and friendly tone, the book bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and the emotional resonance of our relationship with plants. "Green Realm" is a celebration of the intricate, sentient beings that share our planet, weaving a narrative that inspires curiosity, respect, and a deep appreciation for the green tapestry of life.

Poems by award-winning writer Karen Lee Lewis

Important American periodical dating back to 1850.