Enhancing water stress tolerance in pepper at seedling stage by 24-epibrassinolid (EBL) applications

Abstract

In this research, the possibilities of improving water stress tolerance in pepper (Capsicum annuum) at seedling stage were investigated. In order to improve tolerance to water stress during seedling stage, 24-epibrassinolid (EBL) was applied in various concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1 or 1 μM) through foliar spray. After EBL applications, the plants were subjected to water stress by withholding water for seven days. Following stress imposition, the efficacy of EBL treatments on improving tolerance to water stress was determined by various physical measurements and physiological and biochemical analyses. The results indicated that foliar application of EBL was found to be quite effective in enhancing water stress tolerance. Of the EBL concentrations tested, treating the seedlings with 0.1 μM of EBL provided significant protection against water stress compared to non-EBL-Treated seedlings. Therefore, it could be deduced from the results of the current research that foliar application of EBL in 0.1 μM concentration could be used effectively in enhancing seedling tolerance to water stress.