Uncovering plant root traits and mechanisms that enable penetration, exploration, and exploitation of soil parent materials: a systematic review.

Background and aims: Certain plant species, including some trees, have been observed growing not only in soil but also in soil parent materials. However, the root traits and mechanisms enabling these species to penetrate soil parent materials are not yet thoroughly understood. This systematic review aims to identify and discuss the root traits and mechanisms that allow plant roots to grow into soil parent materials. It will also draw insights from the characteristics and mechanisms that plants employ to overcome the challenges posed by compacted soils. Methods: We adhered to the 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses' (PRISMA) guidelines for our methodology. Results: We identified increased root radial pressure, investment in root biomass, fine root development, root trematotropism, mycorrhizal associations, root hairs, and root exudates as key traits aiding plants in soil penetration. The mentioned root traits and mechanisms have also been shown to help plants overcome compacted soil, except for mycorrhizal associations. Conclusion: The key root traits and mechanisms identified in this review lay the groundwork for a deeper understanding of root-soil parent material interactions and plant adaptations in changing physical environments. This enhances our ability to select the next generation of robust and resilient crops capable of thriving in complex root-soil parent material interactions. Future research on root-parent material interactions in food crops holds promise for improving our understanding of how crops can grow beyond traditional soil limitations (such as soil depth). Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11104-025-07916-3.