646 Comparison of Ca and B Deficiency Effects on Growth and Development of Bedding Plants

Abstract

The margin of error in pinpointing the difference in deficiency symptoms between calcium and boron is high. Several experiments were conducted in the greenhouse to induce as well as to differentiate the exact foliar and root symptoms of Ca and B. The experiments were conducted with modified Hoagland nutrient solutions. The treatments were with or without Ca or B salts for inducing total deficiency symptoms. Symptoms were expressed on the upper part including the growing point of the plant. In absence of Ca, marigold and zinnia plant heights were reduced by 58% and 37%, respectively, from the control. However, the reduction in height was only in the 27% and 25% range for B deficiency. Ca deficiency was noted as a blackened region on the leaf blade (early stage symptoms) which progressed into necrotic spots on the newly formed leaves. Severe necrosis, was observed on the growing point with advanced Ca deficiency. B deficiency results in a leathery and gray color in zinnia, needle like and narrow leaflets in marigold. The leaf blades were brittle in all B deficient species. B deficient plants roots were stiff and leathery and lateral roots possessed black nodule like endings at the tips. The Ca deficient roots expressed less side branching and at the advanced stage the roots were shorter and fewer with severe necrotic symptoms. The above initial and advanced deficiency symptoms appeared earlier in treatments without Ca than B. Images of Ca and B deficiency symptoms, as well as tissue concentration values will be presented.