Lignite‐derived humic substances modulate pepper and soil‐biota growth under water deficit stress. Issue 5 (12th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Qin, Kuan; Leskovar, Daniel I.
• Is Part Of: Journal of plant nutrition and soil science. Volume 181:Issue 5(2018:Oct.)
• Page Start: 655
• Page End: 663
• Publication Date: 2018-07-12
• Subjects: bell pepper -- clay soil -- deficit irrigation -- plant biomass -- sandy soil -- soil microorganisms; Plants -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Soil science -- Periodicals; 630
• DOI: 10.1002/jpln.201800078
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1436-8730

Abstract

Abstract: Organic matter‐derived soil amendments containing humic substances (HS) have a functional role to improve plant growth and soil quality, but their response to water deficit stress is less reported, particularly in vegetable crops. This study assessed the impact of lignite‐derived HS on biota growth and evaluated their potential mitigative effects under water deficit stress in growth chamber and greenhouse environments. Bell pepper ( Capsicum annuum L. cv. Revolution) plants were grown in sandy and clay soil previously mixed with lignite‐derived HS and subjected to four irrigation levels (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) based on soil water‐holding capacity. Plant growth traits, soil chemical properties, and microbial populations were measured and analyzed. HS increased plant root development and soil bacteria population in moderate and no stress conditions (60%, 80%). Physiologically, HS rapidly decreased leaf stomatal conductance and transpiration after imposing severe or mild stress (20%, 40%). The results indicate that HS transiently ameliorated plants exposed to water stress by reducing moisture loss. In addition, due to their capacity to improve plant root growth, soil nutrient cycling and microbial activity, application of HS might have long‐term benefits in agricultural systems.