Cell Membrane Stability and Leaf Water Relations as Affected by Nitrogen Application in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of N application on cell membrane stability measured by the polyethylene glycol test and leaf water relations in maize. With increasing N levels leaf water potential was decreased while total plant weight and cell membrane stability were increased. Osmotic potential decreased with increasing N levels in order to maintain turgor at lower water potential conditions. Sugar and K were identified as the major osmotic contributors in maize. Osmotic adjustment was evident while concentrations of sugar, K and amino acids in cell sap increased with increasing N application.