Morpho-physiological parameters
The experiment lasted until the loss of turgidity in the leaves of the stressed control. Firstly, the chlorophyll content measurement was performed at the end of the trial, randomly measuring SPAD on 5 leaves per plot. The SPAD index was significantly (p<0.05) lower in drought-stressed plants, with a decrease of 25% compared to the watered control (C). Also, both fresh and dry weights were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in drought conditions (D), being about three times lower than the control.
In parallel, an increase in leaf temperatures was registered. The temperatures after four days (T4) were 10% higher compared to the C+D at the starting point (T0) and +6% compared to C. Similarly, the relative water content (RWC) after four days was reduced, resulting in about half of the control.