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Quantifying the boron demand of Pelargonium graveolens for optimum biomass yield and quality of essential oil under field conditions

Abstract Deficiency and toxicity of micronutrient boron (B) play a critical role in plant productivity. In this study, the evaluation of B supplementation on biomass and essential oil (EO) yield of rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.) and its distribution at different application rates (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 kg ha−1) was performed in a field trial during the growing season of two consecutive years 2017–18 and 2018–19. Boron uptake, plant biomass, and EO yield along with EO constituent in leaves were determined at different time scales. Application of B significantly improved the biomass yield of P. graveolens and at B-II treatment (5.0 kg ha−1 dose) highest biomass and EO yield was recorded, however, B-III treatment (7.5 kg ha−1) demonstrated toxicity symptoms like the decline in protein and chlorophyll content and an increase in proline and stress enzymes (SOD, CAT) in plant leaves. The effects of B on EO constituents varied with the different developmental stages of P. graveolens. Furthermore, the application of B at 5.0 kg ha−1 acts as a stimulant in upgrading the quality and quantity of EO with improved main aroma constituent’s P. graveolens than the control without modulating odor quality i.e., citronellol:geraniol (C:G) ratio. Hence, the study revealed a balanced level of B as a crucial parameter for the enhanced productivity with the improved economic return of P. graveolens.