Assessment

Branching

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Numerous lateral and fine roots form a dense, well-distributed network.

1

Lateral roots are present and reasonably distributed, but branching is somewhat reduced.

2

Lateral roots are relatively few, short, or poorly branched; substantial areas of the root system are sparsely occupied.

3

Very few lateral roots are present, or the roots are predominantly unbranched/coiled with little fine-root development.

Root Color

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Predominantly white to cream, especially on actively growing root portions.

1

Mostly healthy white/cream roots with noticeable light tan discoloration.

2

A substantial portion of the roots are brown or gray.

3

Roots are predominantly dark brown to black.

Texture

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Roots are firm and resilient when gently handled.

1

Roots have slight loss of firmness but remain structurally intact.

2

Roots are noticeably soft and lack normal firmness.

3

Roots are mushy, slimy, collapsing, or readily disintegrate when handled.