A Possible Role of Ascorbate in Boron Deficient Radish (Raphanus sativa L. cv. Cherry Belle)

• Main Author: Sedlacek, Theresa D.
• Other Authors: Smith, Donald Wiley
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: University of North Texas 2001
• Subjects: Boron in plant nutrition.; Radishes.; Vitamin C.; Boron deficiency; ascorbate; nutrient uptake; plants
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc2867/

The most apparent symptom of boron deficiency in higher plants is a cessation of growth. Deficiency causes a reduction in ascorbate concentration and the absorption of nutrient ions. Addition of ascorbate temporarily relieves deficiency symptoms. In boron sufficient plants the addition of ascorbate to media causes an increased uptake of nutrients. In an attempt to discover if ascorbate addition to deficient plants causes increased ion uptake, radish plants were grown hydroponically in four different strengths of boron solution. A colorimetric assay for phosphorus was performed both before and after supplementation. Results, however, were inconclusive.