Impact of salinity and calcium stress on some properties of Isabgol (Plantago ovata)

Abstract

To investigate the influence of salinity and calcium (Ca) on some properties of Plantago ovata, a pot factorial<br />experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replicates was conducted in Jiroft, south of Kerman<br />Province, Iran. Three salinity levels of 0, 100 and 200 mM NaCl and Ca levels of 0, 5 and 10 mM Calcium nitrate were<br />applied as the first and second factors, respectively. Results showed that salt levels significantly affected plant height, dry<br />weight, number of spikes per plant, spike length, number of seeds per spike, mucilage and 1000 seed weights. Maximum<br />values for the measured variables were obtained in control and the minimum values in 100 mmol sodium chloride. The<br />effect of Ca on these traits was significant as well; it diminished the adverse effects of salinity. In addition, the interactive<br />effects of salt and Ca on all the above traits were remarkable except for mucilage and spike length on which no significant<br />effect was observed.