The O.D.R. values under tensiometer guided irrigation were found to be high at the time measurements were made. Under the set irrigation program, the O.D.R. were lowest for unamended soil, next lowest for peat amended soil, and highest for soil amended with lignified redwood and calcined clay. Root growth in containers receiving water on a set schedule was associated with the measured O.D.R. A value of about 0.15 µg cm−2min−1 appeared to be the lower limit for root growth. Each amendment promoted the development of a root system of unique characteristics.