Enhancement of growth performance and stress tolerance in summer‐grown Chinese chives ( Allium tuberosum ) by exogenous trehalose application

Abstract This study examined the effects of exogenous trehalose on the development and stress tolerance of Chinese chives ( Allium tuberosum ) under high‐temperature conditions during summer. Foliar applications of trehalose at several dosages significantly improved morphological traits, including leaf length, plant height, and yield. Trehalose treatments enhanced photosynthetic efficiency (net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate) and chlorophyll content (soil plant analysis development values), while reducing intercellular CO 2 concentration. Furthermore, the treatment of trehalose augmented the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) and diminished malondialdehyde levels, indicating a decrease in oxidative damage. The buildup of osmolytes, such as proline, soluble carbohydrates, and proteins, was significantly increased, hence boosting stress resilience. Among the treatments, 5 mmol/L trehalose showed the most pronounced benefits in growth, physiological, and biochemical indicators. The data demonstrate that trehalose functions as an effective biostimulant for enhancing the summer acclimatization and yield of Chinese chives.