Growth and biomass yield of hydroponically grown thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) in response to brackish water‐induced stress*

Abstract

AbstractReuse of non‐traditional water (brackish water) in agriculture will reduce the cost of disposal. On the other hand, the use of brackish water may cause environmental pollution to the soil, groundwater and plants after being discharged to the soil. The purpose of the current study was to assess the effect of reusing filter station water on the growth and yield of thyme plants during three growing seasons, 2014–2016. Three types of irrigation water were used in the current study: fresh tap water (T1), mixed water (T2) and brackish water (T3), with total dissolved solids (TDS) of 500, 1500 and 2500 ppm, respectively. Number of lateral leaves, plant height (cm) and fresh and dry weights (g m¯2) were recorded. In addition, the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) in the leaves was determined. Results showed that plant parameters as well as yield were affected by mixed and brackish water. In addition, the chemical composition of leaves was affected significantly by the treatments. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.