IMPROVING SPINACH PRODUCTIVITY AND MINERAL UPTAKE WITH AUXIN-BASED FOLIAR TREATMENT

Abstract

Auxin plays a crucial role in plant growth regulation, influencing cell elongation, nutrient uptake, and overall biomass accumulation. This study appraised the effects of auxin foliar application on spinach growth, physiological traits, and nutrient uptake in a controlled laboratory experiment at Gomal University, Soil Science Department. Five treatments included 0-200 mg L⁻¹ a  uxin levels. The 150 mg L⁻¹ treatment significantly enhanced all the growth, physiological and biomass accumulation parameters. However, excessive auxin (200 mg L⁻¹) led to slight reductions. Auxin also improved nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake. These results suggest that foliar-applied auxin can enhance spinach productivity and nutrient efficiency. Further field studies are needed to optimize its practical application.