Abstract: 【Objective】The objective of this experiment was to further understand the dynamic distribution of root morphology of winter wheat, and to provide the optimization parameters of root configuration for the potential high yield.【Method】Root length density, root tips, root surface area, root diameter and net root growth rate of winter wheat were measured in situ with the minirhizotrons technique during the process of root growth and death.【Result】The maximum root length density and root tips occurred at elongation stage, and the maximum root surface area and root diameter appeared before heading. Until one week after harvest, root length density, surface area and root tips began to decrease significantly. The average root diameter of winter wheat in the soil layer of 0-40 cm was greater than that in the depth of 40-80 cm, and the maximum root length density always appeared below the depth of 30-40 cm during the observation period. Diameters of most root system of winter wheat were less than 0.5 mm, and fine roots with diameter between 0.10 mm and 0.25 mm were 1.3-2.1 times higher than the sum of other intervals. Root growth rate in the 0-40 cm soil layer increased significantly form reviving to early jointing stage, and root growth rate in the soil layer of 40-80 cm increased obviously at the late jointing stage.【Conclusion】 Root growth of winter wheat was exuberant from reviving to heading stage, and its growing center shifted downward gradually. The root death rhythm of winter wheat was lagging after harvest. Root diameter of winter wheat in deep soil layer was small. Root system of winter wheat was comprised of fine roots with diameter between 0.10 mm and 0.25 mm.

Key words: minirhizotron , winter wheat , root morphology , root length density