Effects of different shading levels on growth, physiology and leaf surface micromorphology of Sorbus sibirica ‘Dong Hong’ seedlings
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Background Sorbus sibirica ‘Dong Hong’ is a promising ornamental cultivar, but its optimal light conditions remain unclear. Aims This study evaluated the effects of shading on seedling growth, physiology, root morphology, and leaf surface micromorphology. Methods One-year-old seedlings were grown under full sunlight (CK) and 30%, 50%, or 70% shade for 100 days. Growth, biomass, root traits, chlorophyll, invertase, soluble protein, stomatal characteristics, and epicuticular wax morphology were determined. Results Shading significantly affected all measured traits. The 30% shade treatment produced the greatest seedling height, which increased by 118.18% compared with CK, and the highest chlorophyll content, which increased by 120.21%. Soluble protein content was slightly increased, whereas invertase activity decreased under moderate shading. Although total biomass decreased by 18.63%, root development remained relatively stable under 30% shade, with slight increases in total root length and average root diameter. Stomatal density was highest under this treatment, and the epicuticular wax structure remained relatively regular. In contrast, 70% shade markedly inhibited biomass accumulation and root development. Conclusions Moderate shading, particularly 30%, provided the most favorable light environment for Sorbus sibirica ‘Dong Hong’ seedlings and is recommended for summer nursery cultivation in Northeast China. Highlights 30% shading maximizes seedling height and chlorophyll accumulation. Moderate shade maintains stable root growth and regular leaf wax structure. Severe shading (70%) strongly suppresses biomass and root development.
Institutions: Qiqihar University, Northeast Forestry University
Language: English
Subfield: Forestry
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7171407367