Boron and Its Role in Plant Nutrition

Boron (B) indirectly influences iron (Fe) absorption in plants by increasing plant growth, thus increasing the demand for Fe.

As boron increases, the ratio of manganese (Mn) to iron (Fe) in tobacco leaves decreases due to an increase in Fe and a decrease in Mn.

Boron (B) helps plants absorb and transport iron (Fe) through the plant.

Boron (B) is thought to reduce aluminum (Al) toxicity in plants, possibly by controlling hydrogen ions and pectin.

Aluminum (Al) modifies the composition and structure of plant cell walls, especially pectin and hemicellulose.

Boron application can reduce hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde and lignin and prevent negative effects of aluminum on root growth in plants like Poncirus trifoliata.

Boron is found to be involved in reallocating apoplastic iron (iron stored outside of the cells) in the root, which is a crucial iron storage site in plants.

In hydroponically grown tomatoes, boron levels directly affect iron absorption and transport correlating with growth.

Boron and zinc application can increase phenolic compounds and oil content in olive plants during ripening, and improve the ratio of unsaturated/saturated fatty acids. It also affects strawberry fruit quality, increasing fruit yield, soluble solids, and ascorbic acid content.

Manganese influences phenolic polymer synthesis (lignin and suberin), improving plant resistance, and can reduce rust severity in coffee plants.

Combined application of Boron, Manganese, and Zinc can enhance plant growth, shelling ratio, and chlorophyll concentration in pea plants, demonstrating synergistic effects.

Some nutrient applications can have opposing effects (antagonistic) instead of positive ones.

Different nutrient doses affect the absorption of nutrients, resulting in variation in plant yield and fruit quality.

Boron application affects nutrient absorption and results in increase in fruit yield in strawberry plants.

Zinc application affects nutrient absorption and results in increase in fruit yield in strawberry plants.

Lignin and suberin are phenolic polymers that contribute to plant resistance to enzymatic degradation and fungal pathogens.

Boron (B) decreases the synthesis of pectin and the activity of pectin methylesterase, enzymes involved in cell wall structure.

Boron (B) reduces aluminum (Al) toxicity by promoting alkalization of the root surface, regulating H+-ATPase activity, and affecting pectin methylation, which influences Al binding.

The degree of pectin methylation determines the amount of carboxyl groups available for binding to Al3+, impacting its sensitivity in different plants.

Boron (B) indirectly influences iron (Fe) absorption by improving overall plant growth, increasing the demand for Fe.

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that harms plant growth, development, yield, and quality by blocking Fe and Zn uptake, leading to chlorosis and stunted growth.

Cadmium toxicity is characterized by chlorosis (yellowing due to blocked Fe and Zn uptake), stunted growth, increased ROS production, decreased chlorophyll content, and reduced photosynthetic activity.

Boron (B) regulates the polar auxin transport (PAT), leading to changes in H+-ATPase activity, which helps alleviate aluminum toxicity.

Boron (B) reduces aluminum (Al) uptake in roots and leaves, minimizing oxidative damage and improving antioxidant activity, thus mitigating Al-induced stress.