Root and Root Hair Growth of Oats: Replaceability of Calcium

In this study, oat seedlings were grown in various nutrient solutions to assess the effects of calcium, magnesium, and potassium deficiencies on root and root hair growth. The absence of magnesium or potassium did not impact root elongation when calcium was present, but calcium deficiency led to reduced root hair elongation and deformation. Strontium was tested as a calcium substitute, resulting in significantly reduced primary root growth and cell elongation, although it did not cause other calcium deficiency symptoms. Only calcium nitrate supported normal root and root hair growth, indicating that while strontium may mitigate some toxic effects, it could not fully replace calcium for optimal growth in oats.