Soil Health and Carbon Farming: Kernza Deep Roots for Biopore Formation

Abstract

This project investigates the role of root-derived carbon (C), particularly rhizodeposition, in sustaining microbial activity and nutrient cycling in subsoil environments. While the importance of rhizosphere processes in topsoil is well documented, the deeper soil layers—despite their significant potential for long-term C storage and soil health—remain poorly understood. Subsoils typically have lower organic matter content, microbial activity, and root density, yet emerging evidence suggests that rhizosphere hotspots in these layers may disproportionately influence nutrient mobilization and carbon sequestration.

<p>A key focus is on biopores—former root channels and earthworm burrows—that act as conduits for deep root growth and microbial colonization. These structures may function as critical biochemical hotspots in subsoils, with implications for nutrient availability, microbial diversity, and SOC accumulation.

<p><b>The project aims</b> to quantify root-derived C inputs, characterize the properties of biopores, and evaluate microbial and mycorrhizal dynamics with depth. Five interlinked work packages (WPs) will assess biopore structure (WP1), carbon turnover (WP2), root-biopore interactions (WP3), rhizodeposition across depths (WP4), and depth-dependent mycorrhizal colonization (WP5).</p>

<p>Results will inform soil management strategies for carbon farming and climate-smart agriculture by identifying mechanisms to enhance subsoil C storage and improve overall soil function.