Background:The mineral nutrient concentrations in plants are usually decreased under elevated CO 2 concentration ([CO 2 ]), while warm root-zone temperature (RZT) can improve plant growth and the absorption of mineral nutrients in plants.
Aims:The effects of RZT on the growth and mineral nutrient concentrations in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants were investigated under different [CO 2 ] levels.
Methods: A soil-cultured pot experiment was carried out on cucumber plants under two [CO 2 ] levels (ambient and elevated) and two RZT levels (cold and warm) in four open-top chambers. Results: Although elevated [CO 2 ] promoted root growth, it did not counteract the decrease in the concentration of nitrogen ([N]), potassium ([K]), calcium ([Ca]), and magnesium ([Mg]) in cucumber plants due to the decreased mass flow indicated by the decreased transpiration rate (Tr) under cold RZT. In comparison, warm RZT increased the [N], [K], [Ca], and [Mg] in cucumber plants under elevated [CO 2 ], attributed to a higher Tr and better root growth. In addition, the concentration of phosphorus ([P]), iron ([Fe]), manganese ([Mn]), and zinc ([Zn]) in cucumber plants was maintained or increased under elevated [CO 2 ] by the promoted root growth related to interception by warm RZT. Conclusions: Under elevated [CO 2 ], warm RZT could ensure the [N], [K], [Ca], and [Mg] in cucumber plants mainly by increasing the Tr and improving the root growth. Whereas warm RZT maintained or increased [P], [Fe], [Mn], and [Zn] primarily relied on the improved interception as indicated by the better root growth.