Figure 1.
Gradients in water potential in the soil–plant continuum as a function of Es and ψsoils, including the hypothetical effect of RHs in two soil textures (sand versus loam). A, Sketch of water potential decreases from soil to leaf at low (Elow) and higher (Ehigh) Es in wet and dry conditions. B and C, Relation between E and ψleaf-x (measured with pressure apparatus, balancing pressure, P = ψleaf-x) and hypothetical impact of RHs and soil textures on the relation. RHs are expected to extend the root–soil contact area and hence attenuate the drop in matric potential around the roots (C).