The appropriate concentration of L-aspartate nano-calcium promotes growth and potassium utilization in cigar varieties of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)

Abstract

L-aspartate nano-calcium is a nanoscale amino acid chelated calcium that has been widely used as a human calcium nutrient enhancer. However, its role in the field of botany remains to be fully elucidated. This study is the first to investigate the use of L-aspartate nano-calcium as a calcium source for tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). In this study, two tobacco plant varieties for cigars, a potassium-efficient and a potassium-inefficient variety, were cultivated using a conventional source of calcium (nitrate), alongside a range of concentration gradients of L-aspartate nano-calcium (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 150 mg L⁻¹). The impact of L-aspartate nano-calcium on the growth of cigar varieties with varying potassium efficiency types was examined in terms of morphology, physiology, and potassium absorption and utilization. Furthermore, an EW-TOPSIS coupling model was established. The results of the multi-objective decision-making and evaluation process, conducted using the EW-TOPSIS method, indicate that L-aspartate nano-calcium can serve as a novel calcium source for maintaining the growth of cigar varieties. Additionally, the findings suggest that a concentration of 150 mg L⁻¹ L-aspartate nano-calcium is the most beneficial for the potassium development and utilization and is applicable to both the potassium-efficient variety and the potassium-inefficient variety. The study provides a scientific basis for improving cigar varieties quality, enhancing potassium utilization efficiency and utilizing L-aspartate nano-calcium as a novel calcium supplement in botany.