Effects of changes in leaf properties mediated by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on foliar absorption of Zn, Mn and Fe

Background and Aims Foliar fertilization to overcome nutritional deficiencies is becoming increasingly widespread. However, the processes of foliar nutrient absorption and translocation are poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate how cuticular leaf properties affect the absorption of foliar-applied nutrients in leaf tissues. Methods Given that methyl jasmonate (MeJA) can cause alterations in leaf properties, we applied 1 mm MeJA to sunflower (Helianthus annuus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and soybean (Glycine max) to assess changes in leaf properties. Using traditionally analytical approaches and synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy, the effects of these changes on the absorption and translocation of foliar-applied Zn, Mn and Fe were examined. Key Results The changes in leaf properties caused by the application of MeJA increased foliar absorption of Zn, Mn and Fe up to 3-to 5-fold in sunflower but decreased it by 0.5-to 0.9-fold in tomato, with no effect in soybean. These changes in the foliar absorption of nutrients could not be explained by changes in overall trichome density, which increased in both sunflower (86 %) and tomato (76 %) (with no change in soybean). Similarly, the changes could be not attributed to changes in stomatal density or cuticle composition, given that these properties remained constant. Rather, the changes in the foliar absorption of Zn, Mn and Fe were related to the thickness of the cuticle and epidermal cell wall. Finally, the subsequent translocation of the absorbed nutrients within the leaf tissues was limited (< 1.3 mm) irrespective of treatment. Conclusions The present study highlights the potential importance of the combined thickness of the cuticle and epidermal cell wall in the absorption of foliar-applied nutrients. This information will assist in increasing the efficacy of foliar fertilization.