[Different methods of forming root systems in plants using maize and flax seedlings as examples].

Comparison of the appearance and development of lateral roots in the flax and maize seedlings has shown the way of root branching in the flax, as distinct from that in most plants. Some primordia in the flax main root did not develop immediately into lateral roots, but remained quiescent, which determines different reactions of the maize and flax root systems to experimental influences. Decapitation of the main root in the maize did not leads to a significant increase in the number of lateral roots, while in the flax, their number noticeably increased due to the development of previously quiescent primordia into lateral roots.

[Analysis of possible mechanisms of regulation of root branching].

The formation of lateral roots under the influence of growth inhibitors and phytohormons were studied with germs of corn and flax. All corn primordiums develop into the lateral roots without dormancy period, while some flax primordiums are delayed in development. Removal of root apical meristem (decapitation) does not result in the increase in number of lateral roots of corn germs.