An improved and convenient petri plate-based method for studying the root growth of plants

Abstract

Plant scientists across the globe are interested in studying the root growth architecture of plants to understand different processes determining growth and development in plants. In the majority of cases, root growth-related experiments are carried out on petri plates filled with solid nutrient media. However, plants growing in these plates are often exposed to conditions that are not close to the natural conditions. Also, it is difficult to pour two different media on the same plate which is quite a useful feature to study the effect of specific treatment on plant growth. In the present work, we describe an improved and easy-to-use petri plate system useful for studying root growth characteristics of young plants grown over solid nutrient media. In comparison to the conventional methods, the present plate system offers an advantage in terms of facilitating the pouring of two different media in the same plate, avoiding contact of the aerial part of the plant with nutrient media, and ensuring the growth of roots under dark conditions. Briefly, two sections with horizontal apertures are provided across the length of the plate. While the upper section ensures that the aerial part of plants does not come in contact with nutrient media, the lower section facilitates the growth of roots in a second media having different nutrient compositions. The upper section is kept black, and a self-adhesive black film is provided to cover the root-growing region of the plate ensuring the growth of roots under dark conditions. The described plate, therefore, provides a convenient system to study root growth under conditions close to natural conditions and hence minimizing experimental artifacts.