The response of garden pea cultivars to simulated drought

This study aimed to estimate genetic variability among four pea cultivars and determine seed physiological quality and initial growth of garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) under drought stress. Seeds of the pea cultivars were subjected to water stress induced by polyethylene glycol PEG 6000 at three stress levels (0; -0.15; -0.49, and -1.03 MPa). The experiment was conducted under laboratory conditions, in a completely randomized design with four replications, to estimate germination energy, germination, abnormal seedlings, fresh and dry shoot and root biomass, and drought tolerance index. Drought stress significantly affected germination and the other traits, with the stress effects being proportional to the stress level applied. Findings point to the fact that the osmotic potential of -0.49 MPa might be the germination sensitivity threshold for pea cultivars. The pea cultivar C1 was the most tolerant, having the highest germination, fresh and dry shoot and root biomass, and DTI under severe drought stress. Further research on the assessment of physiological and biochemical responses to drought stress is needed to confirm the findings of the present study.