Are there temporal trends in root architecture and soil aggregation for Hordeum vulgare breeding lines?

► Effects of barley breeding were examined for root architecture and soil aggregation. ► Very fine root length decreased over time for only one of the two tested lines. ► Soil structure was not affected by root length or release year in our study. ► Reduction of very fine root length did not translate to decreased soil stability. ► Further tests with different crop plants and soils are required.