Changes in ABA and IAA content in the roots and shoots of wheat seedlings under nitrogen deficiency

The effect of nitrogen deficiency on growth rate, potassium uptake, transpiration, and hormone content in durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) seedlings was studied. Nitrogen stress hampered shoot growth; however, by the second day of the treatment, root elongation of N-stressed plants surpassed that of the untreated plants. Nitrogen deficiency resulted in the rapid accumulation of ABA, especially in the shoots, whereas IAA concentration was higher in the roots of N-stressed plants than in the untreated plants. The changes in potassium uptake and transpiration exerted by nitrogen deficiency did not correlate with changes in hormone status. The involvement of ABA and IAA levels as affected by nitrogen nutrition in shoot and root growth is discussed.