Effects of drought and subsequent rewatering on Rumex obtusifolius leaves of different ages: reversible and irreversible damages

Abstract

Solute leakage from leaves can be high, especially under abiotic stress. As climate models project higher drought risks for future summers in Central Europe, the more frequent and more severe drought stress periods might cause increased leakage. Solute leakage under drought and subsequent rewatering was tested in the weed Rumex obtusifolius. A strong increase in leakage from leaves was found in response to drought. Older leaves leaking high amounts of solutes after 17 days of drought were not able to recover and died. However, younger leaves leaking smaller amounts at the end of the drought period were able to recover during a subsequent rewatering period. The results show that the ability of leaves to recover from damage after a drought stress phase must be accounted for because it is an important factor for overall plant performance and finally for competition with other species in the field, particularly under drought conditions.

Keywords:

• water stress
• nutrient loss
• free amino acids
• electrical conductivity
• ion release