Leaf Nutrient Status, Carbohydrate Dynamics, and Soil Characteristics in Healthy and Declined Seedless BarberryShrubs: Preliminary Results

Abstract

Decline disorder in seedless barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.) is characterized by reduced vegetative growth, poor berry development, inactive buds, leaf desiccation, and eventual canopy dieback. This study evaluated the effects of location and plant health on leaf nutrient concentrations, carbohydrate content, soil characteristics, and vegetative and reproductive performance across three regions including Anik, Khan, and Masenan, South Khorasan, Iran. Declined plants exhibited elevated boron levels and reduced concentrations of copper, zinc, iron, and manganese, coupled with lower carbohydrate content. Soil analyses revealed alkaline pH, variable salinity (EC), and high sodicity (SAR). Healthy plants showed greater shoot growth, leaf number, and inflorescence formation. The results suggest that decline disorder arises from a combination of boron toxicity, micronutrient deficiencies especially with zinc deficiency, and adverse soil conditions. Thus, site-specific monitoring of soil and plant nutrients and soil management strategies are recommended to mitigate seedless barberry plant decline disorder and improve its productivity.