Salt Tolerance of Azalea Cultivars

Abstract

Abstract Conventional leafburn evaluations were compared with a new root cell plasmolysis technique to test azalea cultivars (Rhododendron sp.) for salt tolerance. Plasmolysis was a more rapid indicator of salt tolerance than leafburn evaluation, and the technique was an acceptable method of evaluating azalea salt tolerance. Results of this research indicated that the salt-tolerant group contained those species and cultivars considered sun-tolerant, which are characterized by large leaves, coarse stems, and rapid growth. Kurume azaleas were among those determined to be salt-sensitive.