Accumulation of iron by perumpung (phragmites karka) and its adaptation in various pH of hydroponic solution

Abstract

Iron is included as micronutrient which is needed in limited quantities by plants. Extraction from the soil is carried out through ion exchange between roots and solution in the soil. While the transport mechanism from the root to the leaves is carried out through xylem by a capillary mechanism. Iron concentration in acid sulfate soils is excessive, so it becomes toxic to plants. This research has been carried out to determine iron accumulation by Perumpung in various pHs in hydroponic solutions. The research was also carried out to determine the level of adaptation in the acidic pH and stress of iron ions at a concentration of 50 mg Fe/L. Perumpung used in this study has been seeded on hydroponic media for 3 weeks. The experiment was carried out for 3 and 5 weeks. The nutrient solution used according to the standard Hoagland Solution then added iron ions to a concentration of 50 mg Fe/L. Then 4 variations of pH were made 3, 4, 5, 6 plus two variations as a comparison, according to Hoagland’s solution without the addition of iron (blank) and Hoagland’s solution with the addition of iron but the pH was not regulated (control). The results of this study showed the highest level of adaptation which grew on the blank, then followed by pH 5.6 (control), pH 6, pH 5, and pH 4. Perumpung at pH 3 dead. The highest level of iron accumulation in roots was occurred at pH 5, followed by pH 6, then pH 4, and the control. The accumulation of iron in roots was higher than in shoots. Perumpung was suitable to be used as an iron accumulator at pH 5, while for cultivation it was suitable to be planted at pH 6.