US EPA

1999820 

Journal Article 

Do plants need nitrate? The mechanisms by which nitrogen form affects plants 

Andrews, M; Raven, JA; Lea, PJ 

2013 

Yes 

Annals of Applied Biology
ISSN: 0003-4746
EISSN: 1744-7348 

163 

2 

174-199 

10.1111/aab.12045 

WOS:000323158200003 

The literature on nitrogen (N) form effects on plants at different stages of their development has been critically reviewed, assessing the possible mechanisms of these effects. In particular, nitrate (NO3-) was compared with the other forms of N utilised by plants. It is concluded that the form of N available to plants can affect their time and rate of seed germination, leaf expansion and function, dry matter partitioning between shoot and root, and root architecture. The magnitude of these effects is dependent on environmental factors outside the supply of N. The mechanism of these effects is variable. Assessment of the importance of root or shoot NO3- assimilation under different environmental conditions is an important area for further study. 

ABA; ammonium; ammonium toxicity; atmospheric CO2; auxin; C-3 plants; dry matter partitioning; leaf expansion; low temperature tolerance; mobilisation of seed reserves; nitrate assimilation; nitrogen use efficiency; osmoticum; root architecture; seed dormancy