Smoke Water Promotes Root Meristem Activity and Cell Elongation but Inhibits Root Hair Growth Under Phosphorus Deficiency in Rice
February 2026
in “
South African Journal of Botany
”
Studysummary In this study, rice straw-derived smoke water enhanced root growth in rice plants by increasing root meristem size and cell proliferation, reducing superoxide accumulation under phosphorus deficiency, and altering internal phosphorus partitioning, although it suppressed root hair elongation, which affected phosphate uptake.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The study investigates the effects of rice straw-derived smoke water on root growth in rice under phosphorus (P) deficiency. Smoke water enhances root elongation by promoting meristem activity and cell elongation, even under low P conditions. However, it suppresses root hair growth, reducing phosphate uptake rates. Smoke water improves phosphorus utilization efficiency and alters internal phosphorus allocation, increasing P accumulation in roots while decreasing it in shoots. These findings suggest that smoke water has a dual role in promoting root elongation and modulating P acquisition and allocation under nutrient stress, though its inhibitory effect on root hair elongation indicates a need for further refinement of its components.
