PGRs improve carbohydrate metabolism and yield attributes in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under water deficit condition

Abstract

Drought is the most significant factor restricting wheat production in the majority of agricultural fields not only in India but also in other parts of the world. A pot culture experiment was conducted to study the effect of exogenous application of plant growth regulators {TDZ; 0.01 μL/L + PBZ; 30 μL/L + AsA; 100 μL/L} in combination on two contrasting wheat cultivars viz., HD 2733 (relatively susceptible), HD 2987 (relatively tolerant) differing on the basis of their tolerance to drought. The results revealed that water stress condition leads to the reduction in carbohydrate metabolism (starch content). Growth (leaf area and plant biomass) and yield relatedtraits also showed significant reduction under water stress condition, while combined application of cytokinin, paclobutrazol and ascorbic acid enhanced the carbohydrate metabolism, yield and its components.