Role of Transpiration and Phloem Transport in Accumulation of 45Calcium in Leaves of Young Apple Trees1

Abstract

Abstract Apple ( Pyrus malus L.) seedlings or rooted layers growing in nutrient solution in the greenhouse were used to determine the role of xylem and phloem in the accumulation of Ca in the leaves. 45 calcium accumulation increased with increasing rates of transpiration as measured by water losses. Girdling experiments demonstrated that the phloem was the primary route of translocation. Young leaves accumulated more 45 ca than old leaves even though the water losses for plants bearing only young leaves or only old leaves were similar. 45 calcium accumulation in mature leaves was decreased when the shoot tips were removed. Apparently, in young apple trees Ca moves primarily in the phloem, but leaks into the xylem at increasing reates in the younger stem and near the growing apex.