Abstract
Long term degradation of water quality from natural resources has led to the use of alternative water resources for irrigation that are saline. Saline water irrigation in floriculture for the production of nursery crops requires an understanding of plant response. The pot growth of four lavender species (Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula dentata var. dentata, Lavandula dentata var. candicans and Lavandula stoechas) irrigated with water containing different concentrations of NaCl (0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mM) was investigated under greenhouse conditions. Overall results of different plant growth variables were consistent, showing a significant decrease at 100 and 200 mM NaCl. All lavender species showed signs of salinity stress that included chlorosis, followed by leaf and stem necrosis at NaCl concentrations greater than 50 mM. L. dentata var. dentata showed the greatest plant growth followed in descending order by L. dentata var. candicans, L. stoechas and L. angustifolia. Despite greater growth of L. dentata var. dentata, the appearance of L. dentata var. candicans was “healthier”. In areas with saline irrigation water, L. dentata var. dentata and L. dentata var. candicans are proposed for the production of lavender nursery crops.
Highlights
In arid, semi-arid and coastal areas, natural resources for good quality water have decreased
Long term degradation of water quality has led to the use of alternative water resources for irrigation derived from water reuse and recycling that is saline [3,4]
This study examines the pot growth of four Lavandula species irrigated with different concentrations of saline water for nursery production to support floriculture in areas with poor water quality, using saline water for irrigation
Summary
Semi-arid and coastal areas, natural resources for good quality water have decreased. They are often characterized by high contents of total soluble salts due to groundwater overexploitation, seawater intrusion into aquifers and increased demand for freshwater, in densely populated areas [1,2]. In many parts of the world, salinity affects agricultural production and is predicted to become more intense in future decades [8]. It is considered as one of the most important stress factors in plant growth and yield that could lead to plant death under persisting
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
