Root/Rhizosphere Layer — FarmPal
Root vegetables and tubers that occupy soil space and interact with the underground ecosystem.
Height
Underground
Functions
- •Deep soil nutrient cycling
- •Carbohydrate storage crops
- •Fungal network support and maintenance
- •Underground habitat for beneficial organisms
- •Soil structure improvement through root channels
Design Tips
- •Some root crops spread aggressively contain appropriately
- •Deep-rooted plants bring up minerals for surface feeders
- •Consider crop rotation even in perennial systems
- •Match root crops to soil depth and drainage
- •Jerusalem artichokes can become invasive harvest thoroughly
Example Plants
Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)
Tubers, Flowers for bees, Tall screen plant
Spacing: 18-24 inches | Zones: 3-9
Groundnut (Apios) (Apios americana)
Tubers, Nitrogen fixation, Native restoration
Spacing: 12 inches | Zones: 3-9
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis)
Crunchy tubers, Perennial root vegetable
Spacing: 12 inches | Zones: 5-9
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Condiment root, Medicinal, Pest deterrent
Spacing: 24 inches | Zones: 3-9
Oca (Oxalis tuberosa)
Colorful tubers, Leaves edible, Unique flavor
Spacing: 12 inches | Zones: 8-10 (or lift tubers)