Dynamics of plastid pigments in sweet corn leaves under different fertilization regimes and heat stress
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61308/GTOU8157Keywords:
sweet corn leaves; сhlorophyll; β-carotene; Fertisol; mineral fertilization; integrated fertilizationAbstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the residual effects of three fertilization regimes on the content and dynamics of plastid pigments in sweet corn leaves (Zea mays var. saccharata 'Overland F1') grown under abiotic stress conditions. A randomized complete block design with four replications was established with the following treatments: T1 – unfertilized control; Т2 Organic fertilization – Fertisol (NPK 4:3:3 + 1.3% MgO и 62% OM); T3 Mineral fertilization – N15K15P15; T4. Combined fertilization – Fertisol + N15K15P15. Chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and β-carotene were measured at two growth stages: vegetative (V8–V9) and reproductive (Мilk stage). At the first measurement, maximum values of total chlorophyll (3.02 mg g-1), chlorophyll a (1.88 mg g-1), and chlorophyll b (1.14 mg g-1) were recorded in treatment T3 (mineral fertilization), while the lowest values were observed under organic fertilization (T2: 1.26 mg g-1 and 0.82 mg g-1). During the reproductive stage, total chlorophyll content decreased in all treatments except T4 (combined), where chlorophyll a increased from 1.26 to 1.83 mg g-1 (+15.4%) and the Chl a/b ratio increased to 3.40, likely due to delayed pigment degradation and extended green period. These results demonstrate that the integrated organic-mineral approach can optimize plant nutrition by combining the rapid action of mineral fertilizers with the prolonged effect of organic sources. This leads to extended photosynthetic activity and enhanced yield potential under changing climate conditions.
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