Strategies for probing absorption and translocation of foliar-applied nutrients

Foliar application of plant nutrients is a common practice adopted by many growers in multiple species. It is usually adopted to prevent situations of limited supply of nutrients through the soil, to quickly revert symptoms of deficiency already appearing in the field, or to supply plants with nutrients required in higher amounts during specific growth stages. However, the efficacy of foliar application to overcome nutritional deficiencies relies on the effective absorption of nutrients and translocation to other organs of the plant. In this issue, Li et al. (2021) explored the absorption process of foliar-applied zinc (Zn) by non-glandular trichomes of sunflower using cutting-edge techniques to reveal that not only can absorb foliar-applied Zn, but also have roles in translocation of the foliar-absorbed Zn.

Automated summary

Foliar application is a common practice used by growers to supply plants with nutrients efficiently. The study shows that non-glandular trichomes of sunflower can absorb and translocate foliar-applied zinc, revealing their role in nutrient uptake and distribution.