Adequate Boron Supply Modulates Carbohydrate Synthesis and Allocation in Sugarcane

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Soil Science

Background:

• Boron (B) is a vital plant micronutrient, often deficient in weathered soils.
• Boron influences cell wall stability, nutrient uptake, and metabolite synthesis.
• Sugarcane yield and quality are linked to boron availability, with varietal differences observed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of boron availability on sugarcane root and shoot growth.
• To assess boron's effects on nutrient status and carbohydrate metabolism in two sugarcane varieties.
• To understand varietal responses to boron deficiency and adequacy.

Main Methods:

• Hydroponic experiment with two sugarcane varieties (RB867515, RB92579) and two boron concentrations (0.05 mg L⁻¹ deficient, 0.5 mg L⁻¹ adequate).
• Completely randomized design with four treatments and four replicates.
• Analysis of carbohydrate partitioning, nutrient concentrations, and morphological parameters.

Main Results:

• Adequate boron increased reducing sugars and sucrose, while decreasing starch in both varieties.
• Boron supply enhanced nutrient concentrations in most plant organs, except for N and K in leaves.
• Variety RB92579 showed higher carbohydrate and yield parameters, while RB867515 had higher nutrient concentrations, especially with adequate B.

Conclusions:

• Adequate boron supply significantly boosts carbohydrate synthesis and improves sugarcane growth and yield parameters.
• Sugarcane varieties exhibit differential responses to boron availability, but all benefit from adequate supply.
• Boron fertilization is crucial for optimizing sugarcane production, irrespective of varietal susceptibility to deficiency.