A simple method for visualization of phenolics exudation by roots of intact lupin plants; the effect of nitrate and pH.

Phenolics exudation by imbibed seeds and roots of intact lupin plants (Lupinus albus L.) was studied during the first 4 days of growth by a new agar test with specific reagents for phenolics (Gibbs reagent, Naturstoffreagenz A). Comparative studies of the phenolics exudation reveal that legumes exude different phenolics (even if not qualitatively, then at least quantitatively) than oat. The exudation of phenolics starts very quickly after the imbibition of seeds and can be visualized as early as 24 h after sowing. In older seedlings, the exudation of phenolics can be detected along root zones and is influenced by nitrate and pH. At acidic pH, nitrate reduces phenolics exudation, but at pH 7.5 the exudation of phenolics becomes restricted to only some root zones. Nitrate must be present in the rooting media for at least 24 h to cause visible changes in the pattern of exudation at different pH values.