Effect of Leaf Sun Protector on Initial Growth of Khaya senegalensis under Water Deficiency in Different Microclimatic Conditions

Abstract

African mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) is considered as an alternative for forest implantation due to its fast growth and wood properties. However, in some regions, there have been frequent reports of seedling loss or reduced initial growth as a consequence of water scarcity. An alternative way is the use of leaf sun protector, to modify the energy balance and reduce water deficit impacts. Thus, the objective of the present study was to assess the effect of applying leaf sun protector on the growth of young Khaya senegalensis plants submitted to water deficit soil under two microclimatic conditions: high and low atmospheric demand. The plants were kept under water deficit corresponding to 20% of the available water in the soil and treatments were adopted with and without calcium-based leaf sun protector inside greenhouse acclimatized with controlled temperature and relative humidity. Growth was analyzed based on values of total dry matter, leaf area and specific leaf area, after three months of experimenting. Applying leaf sun protector reduced the impact of water deficit on Khaya senegalensis plant growth, especially in the condition of high atmospheric demand, characterized by high vapor pressure deficit and temperature values.