Variation in potassium concentration in Cedrus atlantica by organ, direction, and period

Potassium (K), one of the essential macronutrients for plants, is also one of the most common heavy metals. Therefore, determining potassium accumulation in the woody part, which is the largest organ of trees with long lifespans and large biomass, is important. This study examined the variation of potassium in the trunk organs of cedar (Cedrus atlantica), which is widely used in landscaping, based on organ, direction, and period. The results showed that K concentrations in the outer bark were much higher than those in the inner bark and wood. The highest values in the outer bark were obtained in the north, where urbanization and traffic are intense. It was determined that K concentrations in wood can vary greatly between neighboring cell groups. These results can be interpreted as indicating that atmospheric K pollution is likely caused by urban areas and traffic, and that Cedrus atlantica is a suitable biomonitor for tracking changes in atmospheric K pollution.