Influence of NaCl salinity on plant growth and nutrient assimilation of Zea mays L.

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the world’s leading edible oil and third largest important cereal. In addition to it is used as food for human consumption as well as food grain for livestock. High concentrations of NaCl in soils account for large decrease in the yield of a large variety of crops all over the globe. The objective of the present study was conducted to evaluate NaCl stress on growth and mineral nutrient composition of maize plants. Maize seeds were grown in plastic pots having fine sand. After 20 days of germination, the plants were subjected to seven different concentrations (Control, 25mM, 50mM, 75mM, 100mM, 125mM and 150mM) of NaCl. Plants were analyzed on 15^th day after salt treatment. Factorial experiments in a completely randomized design (CRBD) with three replications were applied. The growth parameters and mineral contents Na, Ca, K and Cl were investigated from saline treated and non saline treated plants. Results indicated that the NaCl stress markedly reduced the shoot and root length fresh and dry masses. Moreover Na⁺, Cl^- content increased with increase in NaCl stress, while Ca²⁺ and K⁺ were decreased significantly.