Avocado rootstock influences scion leaf mineral content

Abstract

To test the influence of avocado rootstocks on the scion leaf ionome, the nutritional status of avocado cultivars Hass and Ettinger grafted onto 15 rootstocks was compared over 3 years. The rootstocks were of different genetic origins (West Indian or Mexican) and were clonally or reproductively propagated. The trees were grown in a high-density orchard, and were continually fertigated as is common in modern avocado orchards. Leaf mineral composition was analysed and found to be correlated with crop load. ‘Hass’ leaves had significantly higher levels of B, Ca, Mg, Na, P and K than ‘Ettinger’ leaves. Rootstocks of Mexican origin produced higher foliar Cl levels, but lower levels of Mg and Mn. Rootstocks grown from seedlings conferred higher foliar K and lower B, Ca and Mg. The results demonstrate that avocado rootstocks affect the nutritional status of the tree, by a differential mineral transport, which is indicated by the scion leaf ionome.