Effect of Magnesium and Manganese Nutrition on Muskmelon Growth and Manganese Toxicity

Abstract

Abstract Muskmelons ( Cucumis melo L.) ‘Harvest Queen’ were grown in sand culture to evaluate the response to Mn toxicity as affected by solution concentration of Mn and Mg. Manganese toxicity symptoms were developed as water-soaked spots, necrotic spots, and necrotic lesions, which were most severe on the lower mature leaves. Leaves developed toxicity symptoms when they contained ≥900 μ-g·g -1 Mn. Increased levels of Mg in the nutrient solution alleviated symptoms of Mn toxicity, decreased Mn concentration in shoot and root tissues, and increased growth of muskmelon plants. The reduction in Mn toxicity was brought about by reduced root absorption of Mn at high Mg supply.