Abstract
The influence of calcium (Ca++) nutrition on the growth and root tissue electrolyte leakage (EL) of carrot (Daucus carota) was investigated using a hydroponic culture system. Seedlings of `Navajo' carrot were grown for 10 weeks with roots submersed in hydroponic nutrient solutions containing 0, 0.1, 1, 2, 4, or 8 meq/L Ca++. The nutrient solution was replenished weekly with its pH maintained at 5.8 for the entire experimental period. The tap root lengths increased as solution Ca++ concentration increased. The diameter and fresh and dry weights of the tap roots increased as Ca++ concentration increased up to 4 meq/L, and then decreased at 8 meq/L Ca++. The root and petiole concentrations of sugar, potassium, and nitrate were unaffected by changes in nutrient solution Ca++ levels. The tissue EL, when tested for the stored roots, decreased as solution Ca++ concentration increased (r = 0.602). Results of this experiment suggest that calcium nutrition is essential for maintaining cell wall integrity in hydroponically grown carrot roots.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
