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10Boron Is Mobile in Cowpea Plants
Sylvia Leticia Oliveira Silva1, Renato de Mello Prado2, Cassio Hamilton Abreu-Junior3
1Department of Agronomy, Federal Institute of Maranhão, Pinheiro, Brazil.
Frontiers in Plant Science
|November 1, 2021
Summary
Foliar boron application enhances cowpea growth by redistributing the essential micronutrient to new leaves. This method improves plant development, even when boron is also present in the soil.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Nutrition
- Soil Science
Background:
- Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) production is often limited by boron deficiency in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Foliar boron application is a strategy to mitigate deficiency, with potential for increased efficiency due to nutrient mobility and residual effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the concentration and mobility of boron (B) in cowpea plants using an isotopic tracer (10B).
- To assess the impact of foliar B application on plant growth and development, with or without substrate B.
Main Methods:
- Cowpea plants were subjected to different boron fertilization treatments, including foliar application of 10B and substrate application of B or 10B.
- The distribution and concentration of 10B were analyzed in various plant organs.
- Plant growth parameters such as leaf area and dry mass were measured.
Main Results:
- 10B was redistributed to new leaves following foliar application, irrespective of substrate boron levels.
- Foliar boron application led to increased leaf area, dry mass of aerial parts, and overall plant dry matter production.
- The study demonstrated enhanced internal boron cycling within the plant.
Conclusions:
- Foliar boron application is an effective method for improving cowpea growth and yield.
- Boron redistribution via foliar spray enhances nutrient availability to developing tissues, boosting plant productivity.
- This approach holds promise for increasing the efficiency of boron fertilization in cowpea cultivation.
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