Development of deep and extensive root systems especially at cold temperatures has been considered an advantage to successful establishment of grass species in arid environments. This study determined the effects of temperature on seedling root and shoot growth of cheatgrass (Bromus tectonrm L.) and 5 collections of Idaho fescue (Festica idahoensis Elmer). Four collections of Edabo fescue were from degraded sites while the fifth Idaho fescue collection was from a site in high ecological

more »

... n. Seedlings were grown in environmental chambers (16 hours day]S hours night) at §, 10, and PC. Root depth was recorded weekly for 9 weeks, and seedlings Kere harvested after 63 days. Tiller and leaf number, below and above-ground biomass, and total root length were evaluated. iit temperatures of 5, 10, and lSY!, cheatgrass grew faster and produced a greater mass of roots and shoots than Idaho fescue. Root and shoot growth were simiiar for the 5 Idaho fescue collections at all temperatures. Idaho fescue collections produced more tillers than cheatgrass, except at 5%. These resnks indicated that cheatgrass produces greater root and shoot growth mass, but tillers less at warmer temperatures than Idaho fescua