Effects of saline-alkali soil conditioner on the recovery of growth and physiology of Chinese seabuckthorn

Abstract

Chinese seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is an important economic and ecological tree species widely distributed in regions of extreme cold and drought in China. In this study, we examined the ecological and physiological response of Chinese seabuckthorn to saline-alkali stress. The results showed that the relative growth in height and base-diameter, as well as biomass, photosynthesis rate, water potential and nonstructural carbohydrate content, are significantly affected by saline-alkali soil under SS1 (0.2% of the mixed salt solution NaHCO3: Na2CO3: NaCl: Na2SO4 = 9:1:81:9) and SS2 (0.5% of the mixed salt solution NaHCO3: Na2CO3: NaCl: Na2SO4 = 9:1:81:9) conditions. The soluble salt content in the soil was approximately 8.87–9.22 g·kg−1 and the pH was above 8.02. After applying 2.0 kg/m3 saline-alkali soil conditioner (invented by Shanxi Agricultural University and granted a national invention patent in China, ZL2010-1–0,281,671.1), the growth and physiological status of Chinese seabuckthorn seedlings recovered compared to the control, and the content of soluble salt decreased to 7.29–7.86 g·kg−1. These results indicated that saline-alkali stress inhibits the normal growth and development of Chinese seabuckthorn seedlings and the application of suitable soil conditioner improves the soil conditions and promotes growth development. The results of this study will provide a theoretical basis for vegetation restoration, comprehensive utilization of saline-alkaline land, and will contribute to ecological development in China.