Bonsai forum

Small Round Balls On The Roots

  • Kenty117
  • Offline Topic Author
  • New Member
  • New Member
  • Posts: 1
  • Thanks received: 0

Small Round Balls On The Roots was created by Kenty117

Posted 6 years 8 months ago #34995
Hi all
I've had 2 Buddhist Pines (Podocarpus) and the both died really suddenly, I've recently got a larger one but all three have these small balls attached to the roots (see photo) can't see anything online about them, so wondered if anyone on here has come across them before?

Thanks for your help
by Kenty117

This message has attachments images.
Please log in or register to see it.

Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.

  • leatherback
  • Offline
  • Platinum Member
  • Platinum Member
  • Posts: 8620
  • Thanks received: 3654

Replied by leatherback on topic Small Round Balls On The Roots

Posted 6 years 8 months ago #34999
yeah, they contain nitrogen fixating bacteria. Very normal on roots of specific plant species.
by leatherback
The following user(s) said Thank You: Clicio, BethAB

Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.

  • Bunsen33
  • Offline
  • Premium Member
  • Premium Member
  • Posts: 120
  • Thanks received: 43

Replied by Bunsen33 on topic Small Round Balls On The Roots

Posted 6 years 8 months ago #35004
I agree with Leatherback. These balls are called nodules and allow the plant to absorb gaseous nitrogen from the atmosphere. They are caused by a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. I've worked on a research project to develop chemicals that facilitate this relationship in soy plants.
by Bunsen33
The following user(s) said Thank You: BethAB

Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.