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Botany JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

A Gusseted Thermogradient Table to Control Soil Temperatures for Evaluating Plant Growth and Monitoring Soil Processes

DOI: 10.3791/54647-v
What you'll learn
  • ✓ Design and construct a gusseted thermogradient table with depth temperature control
  • ✓ Prepare soil containers and monitoring equipment for temperature gradient experiments
  • ✓ Operate the thermogradient table and collect plant growth data across temperature ranges
  • ✓ Analyze seed germination responses to variable soil temperatures
Protocol

Traditional thermogradient tables create a range of temperatures across the surface. Welding gussets perpendicular to the surface of a thermogradient table will control temperature in depth increasing possible research applications.

Difficulty
intermediate
Total time
~7-14 days (depending on seed germination endpoint)

Steps

1
Understand thermogradient table design principles

Learn the difference between traditional surface-only thermogradient tables and gusseted versions that control temperature in depth. Understand how welded perpendicular gussets enable subsurface temperature gradient control for expanded research applications.

▶ 00:48
2
Assemble and configure thermogradient table hardware

Construct the thermogradient table with gussets welded perpendicular to the surface. Install heating and cooling systems with temperature controls and measurement instrumentation to establish and maintain the desired temperature gradient.

▶ 01:43
3
Prepare soil containers and experimental setup

Fill containers with soil and position them on the thermogradient table. Install temperature sensors at multiple depths and positions to monitor vertical and horizontal temperature distribution throughout the experimental area.

▶ 02:54
4
Operate thermogradient table during experiments

Run the heating and cooling systems to establish stable temperature gradients. Monitor sensor readings continuously and maintain temperature setpoints throughout the experimental period while observing plant responses.

▶ 04:57
5
Evaluate seed germination across temperature zones

Collect germination data from seeds planted in soil at different temperature positions along the gradient. Document and compare germination rates, timing, and seedling characteristics relative to measured soil temperatures.

▶ 05:57
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