Dickson quality index is used mainly for forest seedling quality assesment. It is clear that it is useful for many forest seedlings such as coniferus. I wonder whether DQI is useful or not for species that produce big large taproot
The Dickson Quality Index (DQI) can be used in gymnosperms (conifers) as well as angiosperms, such as Eucalyptus and Walnut (Juglans species). The DQI explains plant potential for survival and growth based on total plant mass, root length, and shoot height. So a large taproot is okay because you will measure its length and mass in the equation :)