Cell membrane stability and leaf water relations as affected by phosphorus nutrition under water stress in maize

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of P nutrition under water stress on the cell membrane stability measured by the polyethylene glycol test, plant growth, and internal plant water relations in maize (Zea mays L.). Adaptation to water deficits with improved P nutrition was observed. The cell membrane stability increased, leaf water potential and osmotic potential decreased, and turgor potential increased with improved P nutrition. Osmoregulation was evident with improved P nutrition. Sugar and K were the major osmotic contributors. Total plant dry weight and relative growth rate increased with improved P nutrition under water stress, suggesting that the supply of extra P to plants may be beneficial to increase the tolerance to drought. © 1990 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.