The effects of antitranspirants on leaf water status, stomatal resistance and yield in tomato

Abstract

SummaryThe effects of three antitranspirants, PMA, 8-HQ and kaolinite, on leaf water potential, sap osmotic potential, stomatal diffusive resistance and yield in different tomato cultivars were examined. Antitranspirants were sprayed at the flower initiation and/or fruit development stages. Stomatal diffusive resistance significantly increased in the treated plants compared with control plants. Although leaf water potential and leaf sap osmotic potential gradually decreased, in both treated and control plants, compared with irrigated plants, the decrease was greater in the control plants. Significant yield differences were observed between control and treated plants. A single spray of anti-transpirant at either the flower initiation or fruit development stage improved yield. The application of antitranspirants at both stages was not beneficial. PMA and kaolinite improved the plant water status and yield.