Effects of melatonin applications on Anatolian black pine (Pinus nigra J. F. Arnold. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) afforestation performance in semi-arid areas

Melatonin, a substantial hormone, is natural antioxidant agent that functions as protector against the harmful effects of free radicals. Studies have found “exogenous melatonin” applications positive effect on growth and development plants. This study investigated adaptation seedlings were transported from nursery to afforestation site for process planting. In 2019 2+0 aged bare-rooted Kastamonu/Taşköprü Anatolian Black pine seedlings, which are suitable planting in semi-arid areas, selected research materials. Four different doses (250, 500, 1000, 1500 μM) administered through two methods (root-dipping needle-spraying). Morphological seedling characteristics bioactive chemical variables measured control group treated with melatonin. Antioxidant enzyme activities identified. When both needle-spraying root-dipping melatonin application evaluated terms morphological biochemical variables, best results determined low (250 500 μM). The suggest provides support metabolic resistance temperatures climatic conditions.