Water-retaining polymer: an ecological strategy for tree seedling survival and growth in volcanic-ash laden sites
1993
Castillo, E.T. (Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau, College, Laguna (Philippines). Grassland and Degraded Areas Ecosystem Research Div.)
When subjected to 15 days of non-watering, seedlings applied with the water-retaining polymer exhibited significantly higher soil moisture. The leaf relative water content, net assimilation rate, transpiration rate and water-use efficiency showed positive trends with increasing levels of application of the polymer for both species [Swietenia macrophylla, Acacia auriculiformis] as indicated by increased total leaf area per plant. Leaf wilting and abscission were observed in the control and those applied with lower dosages. Under fifteen days of drying down cycle, the application of 4 g water-retaining polymer per seedling using volcanic ash + soil as media was found best in maintaining favorable plant water balance. Rewatering after 15 days brought back normal leaf turgidity of all plants. In severely-stressed seedlings, polymer-treated plants recovered faster than untreated ones as demonstrated by earlier production of meristematic root and shoot growth. Under conditions of prolonged drought beyond 15 days, the use of higher treatment levels of the polymer is proposed. Field investigations of the polymer on other tree species, soils and environmental conditions are recommended to verify research results of the pot experiment
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