Abstract
Abstract Apple seedlings (Malus domestica) cv ‘York Imperial’ were used as test seedlings in solution culture experiments on the effect of added bicarbonate (HCO− 3 at 61 or 122 ppm) over two K levels (78 or 156 ppm K). Added HCO− 3 not only induced Fe chlorosis but also reduced plant growth. Inclusion of higher K in the nutrient solution containing HCO− 3 tended to alleviate both the growth and reductions in leaf fe concentration. Analysis of upper leaves generally showed increased levels of P, K, Ca, Mg and B compared to control seedlings while Fe was significantly reduced. These trends were modified slightly depending upon the specific HO− 3 or K level. Root nutrient levels generally followed patterns similar to leaves. A concurrent study using similar treatments was conducted with the seedlings exposed to 45Ca. After an eight day exposure period HCO− 3 at either level (61 or 122 ppm), with or without higher solution K, significantly decreased the amount of 45Ca in upper leaves.
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