Seed quality of sesame (Sesamum indicum) as influenced by boron nutrition

Abstract

A study was conducted on the influence of variable boron on biomass, economic yield and its concentration in
leaves and seeds. 'T 4' sesamum (Sesamum indicum I.) was grown in refined sand at variable boron supply ranging
from 0.0033 to 3.3 mg/litre. Lowest (< 0.33) and hlghest (>0,33 mg/litre) levels of boron decreased the biomass, yield
and oil content of sesame seeds. The visible symptoms pf deficiency appeared up to 0.165 mg B/litre and that of toxicity
at 33 mg B/Iitre. At 0.0033 mg B/litre no pods and seeds could be produced. Both deficiency (< 0.33 mg/litre) and
excess(>3.3 mg/liter)of born deteriorated the quality of sesame seed by lowering the protein and starch contents and
increasing the accumulation of carbohydrates and phenols. The values of deficiency, threshOld of deficiency and threshold
of toxicity in leaves were 15.5, 27.0 and 74.0 mg/g dry,matter respectively.