Identifying & Understanding Root Hairs

Root hairs are tiny, elongated extensions of a plant root’s epidermal cell. They play a crucial role in nutrient uptake and water absorption, supporting a plant's overall health and productivity.

Root hairs on plant roots in a yCube

You may see root hairs in both young and mature plants on a plant’s root mass. The healthier the roots, the more root hairs you’ll see.

Root hairs on Microgreens can grow above as well as below the seed pad

Root hairs occur on both yCubes and Microgreens. Just like their name suggests, root hairs are so thin they look like fine, tiny hairs, fuzz, filaments, or cotton. When there are many root hairs, they create a web- or blanket-looking texture with white or translucent coloring.

Root hairs are often mistaken for mold, but they are definitely not!

A mat of white root hairs

These include all varieties of Microgreens, pepper, kale, and tatsoi; along with swiss chard, viola, and snapdragon. 

In hybriponics, root hairs:

• Increase the surface area of the plant’s root system, allowing for more efficient absorption of dissolved nutrients which leads to healthier growth and development

• Help facilitate the uptake of water, which keeps thirsty plants super-hydrated

• Anchors the plant's root system in the grow media (either the rockwool of a yCube or the seed pad, support plate, and bamboo wick of a Microgreen) to help support the weight of the plant as it grows

Not at all! Similar to adventitious roots, root hairs are a good sign of your plant’s vigor. Keep up regular tank top-offs, refreshes, and HydroBoost additions for the healthiest roots. It’s best to inspect mature plant roots every 2-4 weeks - learn how here!

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