The apoplast may be considered as “the internal physiological environment of plant bodies”, that essentially maintains homeostasis.

The book summarizes the experimental work conducted during a trans-disciplinary research programme funded for six years by the German Research Foundation. In their contributions, the authors representing outstanding German scientists from such different disciplines as Physics, Biochemistry, Plant Nutrition, Botany, and Molecular Biology not only report original research but also review the state of knowledge in their particular research fields: nutrient acquisition, short and long distance (xylem) transport, tolerance of nutrient deficiencies and mineral toxicities, and the role of micro-organisms colonizing the apoplast.

Introductory remarks are written to each of the chapters by internationally highly recognized scientists in their research areas.