Effects of Salinity and Copper on Growth and Chemical Composition of Pistachio Seedlings

Abstract

The effects of five salinity levels and four copper levels on growth and chemical composition of ‘Ghazvini, pistachio seedlings were studied under greenhouse conditions in a completely randomized design with three replications. Leaf area, stem height, shoot and root dry weights were determined on 24th week after planting. Copper (Cu), phosphorus (P), sodium (Na), and chlorine (Cl) total uptake in shoot and root of plant were measured. The results showed that salinity decreased growth parameters. Low levels of Cu application had no significant effect on leaf area, shoot and root dry weights while decreased stem height. The highest level of Cu (7.5 mg Cu kg⁻¹ soil) significantly increased leaf area and shoot dry weight but decreased stem height. Salinity decreased Cu and P uptake in the shoot and root, but increased total sodium and chloride uptake. Cu application increased shoot total P uptake and decreased root total Na uptake.

Keywords:

• Ghazvini cultivar
• copper
• salinity
• chemical composition
• growth

FUNDING

We wish to thank Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan Research council for its approval and for providing financial support.