Boron-stress induced changes in water status and stomatal morphology in Zea mays L. and Catharanthus roseus L.

Boron-stress induced changes in water status and stomatal morphology were studied in maize (Zea mays L. var. 32-A09) and periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L. var. Nirmal) plants. Compared to boron sufficient plants (0.33 mg B l⁻¹ supply), boron deficient (0.033 mg B l⁻¹ supply) and toxic (3.3 mg B l⁻¹ supply) plants showed accumulation of proline. The leaf water status measured as specific and relative water content was significantly increased with decreased water potential () in both crops under boron deficiency as well as toxicity. At deficient and toxic supply of boron, both plants showed reduced stomatal size and increase in stomatal index. Stomatal opening was also affected under boron deficiency and toxicity, more so in former in both plants.