Amino acids can be used to make plants more resistant to waterlogging

23 Nov 2023
1998

Floods are expected to be one of the factors negatively affecting the social economy in the eastern region of China, where the frequency and magnitude of the effects are expected to increase in the coming years. Summers in Liaoning Province are often characterised by excessive rainfall due to the increased frequency of extreme weather events.

However, the susceptibility of cherry rootstock to fluctuations in soil moisture is widely recognised; in fact, waterlogging can cause the most susceptible plants to die in a single day. Therefore, in order to ensure cherry production even in these areas, certain methods such as effective cultivation practices (e.g., above-ground cultivation and special drainage systems), reoxygenation and activation of plant response mechanisms are necessary.

Sijun Qin.

Examining the impact of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the root tolerance of P. sachalinensis, a prevalent rootstock used in the area, was the subject of a study conducted by researchers from Henan and Liaoning Province. An increase in ascorbic acid and proline levels in the roots was observed following treatment with GABA, which mitigated the damage caused by waterlogging.

According to the results of this experiment, rootstock tolerance to conditions of prolonged soil saturation can be improved through the activation of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defence mechanisms by the application of amino acids that can improve the plants' response to unfavourable conditions caused by water logging.

Source: Sijun Qin, Water physiology in root system of cherry rootstock and its regulation management, IX International Cherry Symposium. https://2021.cherries.org.cn/replayEn.html

Images: IX International Cherry Symposium

Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

How cherry trees react to climate: cultivar trial in northeastern Romania

Tech management

02 Sep 2025

A two-year study in Iași, Romania, evaluated the phenological, physiological, and productive responses of three cherry cultivars to climate stress. Results provide key insights for varietal selection and orchard management under water scarcity and global climate change.

Pollinators in Belgian cherry orchards: pan-traps vs netting methods

Tech management

18 Jul 2025

A study in Belgium’s cherry orchards assessed wild pollinator diversity using pan-traps and netting methods. Each technique captured different insect groups, showing that combining both provides complete data for monitoring biodiversity and planning effective conservation actions

In evidenza

Irrigation and soil management in sweet cherry: towards more efficient and resilient systems

Tech management

31 Mar 2026

A Canadian study explores how drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation interact with compost and mulching in cherry orchards. Findings highlight impacts on soil moisture, tree growth and yield, providing guidance to manage water stress and improve productivity.

Imports of Chilean cherries into Argentina reach a record high: 1,273 tonnes

Markets

31 Mar 2026

Chilean cherry imports in Argentina hit 1,273 tons, setting a new record. Amid Chilean oversupply and steady premium demand, the market absorbs higher volumes without price collapse, raising questions about future balance and competition in the sector.

Tag Popolari