Root-zone heat priming effects on maximum quantum efficiency of PSII, productivity, root morphology and nutritional quality of two aeroponically grown leafy greens in a tropical greenhouse

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of root zone (RZ) heat priming on Eruca sativa (cv. Arugula) and Lactuca sativa (cv. Canasta) in a tropical greenhouse by exposing them to three different RZ temperatures (RZTs). For the first group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 36 days. The second group of plants was grown at 25 °C-RZT for 10 days before transferring to 38 °C-RZT for 10 days and then to 42 °C-RZT for another 16 days (primed). For the third group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 20 days and for the last 16 days were transferred to 42 °C-RZT (non-primed). RZ heat priming did not affect the leaf expansion of Arugula while the leaf expansion was slower in RZ heat primed Canasta compared to 25 °C-RZT plants. After transferring to 42 °C-RZT in the later stage, RZ heat primed Arugula had similar productivity but a larger root system with higher nutritional quality at harvest and during postharvest storage compared to those of 25 °C-RZT plants. After subjection to 42 °C-RZT, although RZ heat priming enhanced its nutritional quality, the productivity of Canasta was compromised. The results of this study suggest that it is feasible to enhance productivity and nutritional quality of leafy greens at lower production cost through RZT management.