Response to water deficit of Ipomoea cairica (L.) Sweet

Abstract

Green spaces require frequent watering, increasing the pressure on water resources. The use of native plants in landscaping reduces the risks of biological contamination, contributing to preservation of Brazilian biodiversity and provides the value of sustainability in urban green areas. Of these native plants, a restricted number are native lianas which are adapted to Brazilian climate and available on the market. In this regard, the selection and recommending of native plants which are efficient in use of water for planting in urban areas constitute an effective strategy for conservation of water resources. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth and development of I. cairica plants submitted to water deficit. For a period of 100 days after transplanting, plants of this species were grown with watered at pot capacity except for 30 days (from the 30th to the 60th day) when four water deficits (25, 50, 75 and 100% pot capacity) were applied. During all regimes of water deficiency applied, there was a 100% survival rate. After reestablishment of water regime the species recovered its growth, even that was submitted to the 25% of pot capacity. It testify that I. cairica is resistant to low water availability.