Abstract
The effects of iron (Fe) deficiency on catalase and peroxidase activity, net photosynthesis (Pn), stomatal conductance (g s ), plant water relations, and specific leaf weight, were studied under greenhouse conditions in two sweet orange (C. sinensis) cultivars grafted on sour orange (Citrus aurantium) and Swingle citrumelo (C. paradisi × P. trifoliata). Iron deficiency caused by the absence of Fe in the Hoagland nutrient solution reduced significantly catalase and peroxidase activity, photosynthesis (Pn), osmotic potential (Ψ π ), turgor potential (Ψ p ), and specific leaf weight, but did not influence g s and leaf water potential (Ψ L ). Iron deficiency caused by increasing concentrations of bicarbonate supplied as NaHCO3 (10 and 40 mM) in the nutrient solution reduced significantly g s , Pn, and Ψ p and increased Ψ L and Ψ π . Furthermore, remarkable differences were recorded between the various cultivars/rootstocks combinations.