Optimizing chili production in drought stress: combining Zn-quantum dot biochar and proline for improved growth and yield

Abstract

The reduction in crop productivity due to drought stress, is a major concern in agriculture. Drought stress usually disrupts photosynthesis by triggering oxidative stress and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The use of zinc-quantum dot biochar (ZQDB) and proline (Pro) can be effective techniques to overcome this issue. Biochar has the potential to improve the water use efficiency while proline can play an imperative role in minimization of adverse impacts of ROS Proline, functioning as an osmotic protector, efficiently mitigates the adverse effects of heavy metals on plants by maintaining cellular structure, scavenging free radicals, and ensuring the stability of cellular integrity. That’s why current study explored the impact of ZQDB and proline on chili growth under drought stress. Four treatments, i.e., control, 0.4%ZQDB, 0.1 mM Pro, and 0.4%ZQDB + Pro, were applied in 4 replications following the complete randomized design. Results exhibited that 0.4%ZQDB + Pro caused an increases in chili plant dry weight (29.28%), plant height (28.12%), fruit length (29.20%), fruit girth (59.81%), and fruit yield (55.78%) over control under drought stress. A significant increment in chlorophyll a (18.97%), chlorophyll b (49.02%), and total chlorophyll (26.67%), compared to control under drought stress, confirmed the effectiveness of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro. Furthermore, improvement in leaves N, P, and K concentration over control validated the efficacy of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro against drought stress. In conclusion, 0.4%ZQDB + Pro can mitigate drought stress in chili. More investigations are suggested to declare 0.4%ZQDB + Pro as promising amendment for mitigation of drought stress in other crops as well under changing climatic situations.

Mitigation of drought stress in chili plants (Capsicum annuum L.) using mango fruit waste biochar, fulvic acid and cobalt

“…Chili, scientifically known as Capsicum annuum L., is cultivated worldwide and has significantly increased productivity for spices and vegetables. Chili, an essential ingredient in Pakistani cuisine, is a major exporter, but production has declined due to challenges like drought stress 17 . Originally native to the Americas, it is cultivated in Sindh province, Punjab, and Baluchistan 18 .…”

“…However, drought stress significantly deteriorates growth and productivity 19 . Insufficient water availability during critical growth phases negatively affects the progress of plants, leading to smaller yields, reduced productivity, and heightened susceptibility to pests and diseases 17 . Extended periods of drought worsen these difficulties by hindering the plant's ability to produce vital substances like capsaicinoids and vitamins, ultimately compromising the quality and quantity of chili crops 20 .…”