Scientists Map Root-Released Molecules to Guide Development of Hardier Bioenergy Crops

Scientists at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted a meticulous analysis of the compounds released by plant roots into their surrounding environment. The analysis yielded an abundance of data that can guide research aiming to improve the way we grow energy and food crops.

Researchers have long known that the relationships plants form with microbes like bacteria and fungi can make plants more tolerant of poor growing conditions, such as drought or scant nutrients.