Mineral elements for new shoot development in Xanthoceras sorbifolia new shoots.

Abstract

To clarify the variable characteristics of mineral elements in the development of Xanthoceras sorbifolia shoots, key nutrient elements influencing the development of various parts were used. Mineral elements (N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ca, Mg, and Na) in different parts of the shoots were measured using Autoanalyzer and atomic absorption spectrometers with new shoots of X. sorbifolia from different growth periods. Distribution regularities and dynamic change trendencies of different mineral elements in different parts of the new shoots of X. sorbifolia were then clarified using a factor analysis and correlation analysis. Results showed that:(1) N, P, K, Cu, Fe, and Zn in the shoots decreased during shoots development, and Ca, Mg, Na, and Mn in the shoots increased. (2) Mineral elements in stem tips close to young leaves was always higher than young leaves. (3) Except on May 7th, N, P, Fe, and Mn in leaves were higher than stems. No significant differences were found for Na among stem tips, stems, and leaves. (4) Contents of Mg, Zn, and Cu in leaves at the early stage of shoot growth were higher than in stems, but at the later growing stage were lower. At the early stage, K and Ca content in stems were higher than in leaves, and at the later stage were lower than in leaves. (5) The factor analysis showed that the contents of P, N, K, Cu, and Fe had important effects on the development of X. sorbifolia shoots. The main mineral elements affecting stem tip development were P, N, and Cu; affecting stem development were P, N, and K; and affecting leaf development were P and Cu. (6) The correlation analysis for uptake and accumlation of mineral elements showed significant positive correlations of N, P, K, Cu, and Zn (PPX. sorbifolia shoots. To ensure a nutritional balance and plant health, additions of P, N, K, Cu, Fe and other necessary mineral elements should be coordinated and reasonably applied as fertilizer, to achieve a rational and standardized fertilization program for X. sorbifolia.