Sample preparation and determination of iron in plant tissue samples

Abstract

Procedures for sample preparation of plant tissue prior to iron (Fe) determination as well as several analysis procedures are described. Iron analysis can give meaningless results unless extreme caution is used in taking and preparing samples. A significant portion of the Fe in plant leaves is derived from dust which is not easy to remove. Partial correction of the Fe value may be made from concentrations of some other elements present. Concentration of Fe in various plant parts is most meaningful for plants grown under experimental conditions where dust is not a problem. Precautions are required in the interpretation of Fe analysis results. The status of Fe in plants can be diagnosed in many cases from concentrations of other elements and their ratios to Fe. Some alternate procedures other than total Fe determination for determining the Fe status of plants are discussed.