Healthy Roots Consortium Workshop from SLU Grogrund

The Healthy Roots Consortium Workshop from SLU Grogrund gathers researchers, plant breeders and industry partners for a workshop on roots and their roles in future-proof cropping systems. Over two days (22-23 January), we will jointly explore how knowledge of root traits can be translated into practical tools for crop improvement and more sustainable production.

Session 1 will highlight strategies and experiences in breeding for roots, including how to integrate below-ground traits into existing breeding pipelines. In Session 2, we turn to root phenotyping, showcasing methods and platforms ranging from controlled experiments to field-based approaches – with a demonstration of the SLU Grogrund funded Plant Ecology Rhizotron system. On the second day, Session 3 examines roots in their environment, linking root function to soil conditions, climate resilience and nutrient cycling. Finally, Session 4 focuses on biotic interactions in the root zone, including microbiomes, symbionts and soil-borne pathogens.

The lunch-to-lunch event will take place in central Sweden (Uppsala) at SLU’s campus in Ultuna. Food and accommodation will be provided during the workshop.

Note, this workshop will be entirely in English. We encourage you to pass on the details of this workshop to anyone you think would be interested.

Costs for food, coffee/tea and hotel are covered. If you would like to contribute to this discussion, please fill out the form below by 4 January 2026.

Program

Thursday 22 January, from 12:00

o   Lunch 

o   Session 1: Breeding for roots 

o   Fika 

o   Session 2: Root phenotyping 

o   Dinner & Social

Friday 23 January, until 13:45

o   Session 3: Roots in their environment 

o   Fika 

o   Session 4: Biotic interactions in the roots 

o   Lunch