The effect of boron application on boron partitioning in Tristar and Benton strawberries

Abstract

Abstract Soil applications of boron were applied shortly before transplanting dormant strawberry plants into the field in early April. Composite samples of ‘Benton’ and ‘Tristar’ grown under soil applied B fertilizer rates of 0, 1.1, 2.2, and 4.5 kg/ha B were taken during June, August, and September in 1985. ‘Benton’ plants were resampled in April 1986. Tissue concentrations and dry weights were determined for up to ten plant parts. Concentrations decreased over time. Differences in B content between treatments were greatest early in the season and gradually disappeared. The amounts of boron in different plant parts were similar by September for ‘Tristar’ and in the following spring for ‘Benton’. Even though total boron content in strawberry plants could be doubled with the high boron application, little change occurred in nonleaf tissues. Approximately 90% of the additional boron in a plant resulting from soil application of B was found in the leaves. Total B content of nonleaf tissues was similar regardless of B treatment. Interpreting boron concentrations was difficult because all plant parts were signficantly correlated to leaf concentrations, even though total boron uptake of nonleaf tissues did not differ between treatments. Elevated B concentrations were partly due to decreases in dry weight. Leaf tissue analysis did not accurately indicate B status of other plant parts and tissue concentrations can be misleading if total B contents are not evaluated.