The Roots and Leaves Character of Drought Tomato on Application of ZnSO4

Abstract

Application of Zn, beside as an essential nutrient for plants, is known to increase the resistance of plants during drought condition. The purpose of the research was to study the effect of ZnSO₄ application on root and leaf character of tomato plants in drought conditions. Research was arranged in factorial randomized completely block design. The treatment consists of ZnSO₄ application methods (soil and foliar), ZnS0₄ dosage (0, 40 and 60 mg Zn kg^-1 and cultivars ('Permata’ F1 and 'Tyrana’ F1). Watering intervals of every two and eight days were applied, representing non-stress and drought stress conditions during the growth period of the plant. The results showed that the all response of character roots and leaves of the tomato did not show interaction among the three factors. Root biomass, root length and root surface area of tomato plants depend on the method of application and ZnSO₄ dosage. Soil application increased root biomass and root surface area. Root biomass of ‘Permata’ and ‘Tyrana’ showed differences in responses to dosage of ZnSO₄. Leaf area responses in both cultivars ‘Permata’ and ‘Tyrana’ showed the same pattern of the ZnSO₄ dosage. Response of leaf area ratio at each stage of tomato growth on ZnSO₄ application was different.