Year: 2009
Type: article
Abstract: Functions of sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) are closely associated. In some crops, Na+ is able to prevent or reduce considerably the occurrence of K+ deficiency. Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a natrophilic crop, and positive effects of Na+ applications on yield were observed when K+ was sufficiently supplied. However, it is not known which specific function of K+ can limit the growth of sugar beet when K+ is substituted by an equivalent amount of Na+. Therefore, K+ substitution by Na+ was investigated for sugar beet in hydroponics. Surprisingly, no K+‐deficiency symptoms were observed. However, calcium (Ca2+) concentrations in the leaves were significantly decreased. Moreover, Ca2+ uptake and translocation through xylem sap were reduced in Na+‐treated plants. It is concluded that Ca2+ uptake by roots and its translocation via xylem sap primarily limit the possibility of K+ substitution by Na+ in sugar beet nutrition.
Institution: Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2154015760