Variability in Water Capacity of Small-Leaved Linden Associated with Both the Presence of Honeydew and Various Sources of Pollution

Abstract

The process of water retention on the surface of the assimilation apparatus of plants is inextricably linked with the water capacity of tree crowns and depends mainly on the condition of the leaf itself. The main objective of the present study was to investigate how the honeydew coverage and the location of trees related to the content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons affected the differences in the capability of small-leaved linden leaves to capture water. Honeydew coverage was determined with the use of AutoCAD, whereas the content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was determined using gas chromatography. The value of S (water capacity) was much lower before the appearance of honeydew on the leaf than at the peak moment of honeydew collection. This is due to the hydrophobic properties of the substance. It was also found that the content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in leaves varied depending on the distance of trees from pollution sources, and it was found that the amount of PAHs increased with the growth of honeydew on leaves and in locations exposed to pollution. The highest S and the total amount of PAHs occurred with the combination of the largest amount of pyrogenic impurities with the highest amount of honeydew. Combing pollutants from the air by plants is a very important function, but it may also change the physical properties of leaves, such as wettability.