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Abstract
The clone (Salix × smithiana, Willd.) was cultivated in lysimeter pots to monitor lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) leachate and to compare the effect of ectomycorrhizal inoculum (ECMI; Paxillus involutus, Bartsch. ex Fr.) on plant growth and metal uptake by willows during two consecutive vegetation periods. The willow clone was able to reduce metal leaching significantly because of its high phytoextraction potential. In addition, ECMI (i) significantly enhanced plant growth; (ii) decreased metal-induced plant stress, which was represented by greater Ntotal in biomass and by greater productions of free amino acids AAfree (from 128 ± 10 to 204 ± 16 μmol kg−1 fresh weight); and (iii) showed no additional effect of metal uptake. Furthermore, treated willows were affected indirectly, probably because of unsuccessful inoculation by Paxillus involutus, Bartsch. ex Fr., caused by high level of volumetric water content (θv) during both vegetation periods (θv = 25%).
Acknowledgments
The experiment was financed by Norway (Grant No. CZ0092), the Czech Ministry of Education (MSM6046070901), and the Czech Science Foundation (GAČR P503/11/0840).