The Effect of Potassium Sulphate Applications on Plant Growth and Nutrient Content of Pepper Plants Grown Under High Temperature Stress

Abstract

Objective: Abiotic stresses are one of the most important factors that negatively affect plant growth. Especially in recent years, regression in plant growth and product losses have occurred due to high temperature caused by global climate change. The aim of the study was to reduce the effect of high temperature stress and increase plant tolerance with potassium. One of the ways to increase plant tolerance is proper fertilizer and fertilization techniques. Material and Methods: Potassium sulfate fertilizer (K2SO4), which has a positive effect under abiotic stress conditions, was used as fertilizer in the experiment. The experiment was established according to the randomized plot design with 3 replications and 5 plants in each replication. The effects of foliar (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%) and soil (0-5-10-20 kg da-1) potassium applications on plant growth under high temperature stress were investigated. Results: As a result of the application of potassium sulfate from the leaves or roots, the effect of the plant green part scale, the membrane injury index, the dry weight ratio of the green parts, the relative moisture content of the leaves, the nitrogen (N), potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) concentrations in the leaves were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: The results indicated that potassium applications under high-temperature stress led to increases in nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and chlorophyll concentrations, as well as in the relative moisture content of the leaves. It was found that visual damage to green parts and leaf membrane damage decreased under high-temperature stress. The experiment revealed that potassium sulfate positively influenced plant growth under stressful conditions, reducing damage severity and enhancing plant resistance. The experiment revealed that potassium sulfate positively influenced plant growth under stressful conditions, reducing damage severity and enhancing plant resistance.