Expérimental et théorique
Hard pans, soil compaction, soil aggregation and stones create physical barriers that can affect the development of a plant root system. Roots are known to exploit paths of least resistance to avoid such obstacles, but the mechanism through which this is achieved is not well understood. Through model experimental systems (hydrogel, microfluidic or 3D-printed substrates) and techniques (infra-red illumination, force sensor, PIV), we aimed at understanding the biomechanical cues that determine the growth response of a primary plant root subjected to a mechanical stress.