Effect of Conventional and Nano Potassium on the Chemical Characteristics of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) under Different Levels of Water Stress
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Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of conventional potassium fertilization and nano-potassium application on some chemical characteristics of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) under different levels of water stress. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates, using a factorial arrangement. The treatments included three concentrations of nano-potassium (1, 2, and 3 g L⁻¹), three levels of conventional potassium added to soil (4, 6, and 8 g kg⁻¹ soil), and a control treatment without potassium fertilization. Four irrigation levels representing water stress were applied: 100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% of field capacity. Several chemical characteristics were measured, including chlorophyll content, proline concentration, mineral nutrient content (N, P, and K), protein percentage, and total carbohydrates in the leaves. The results indicated that nano-potassium application significantly increased chlorophyll content, protein percentage, and total carbohydrates compared with the control treatment. Conventional potassium fertilization significantly improved mineral nutrient concentrations, particularly potassium in plant tissues. Water stress levels significantly affected most of the studied traits, with moderate levels enhancing some physiological responses. The interaction between potassium treatments and irrigation levels showed significant effects on several chemical characteristics of alfalfa plants. Overall, potassium nutrition, especially in nano form, improved chemical characteristics and enhanced alfalfa plants' tolerance to water stress. These findings highlight the potential role of nano-potassium fertilization in improving plant performance and forage quality under limited water availability.
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References
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