Improving the tolerance of sunflower plants to calcareous-saline soil using spermidine, zinc and potassium [electronic resource].

Includes reference.

Two Field experiments were carried out to study the role of foliar application of K and Zn as well as seed soaking with spermidine (Spd, 10 mg/l) alone or in combination, to improve the productivity and tolerance of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) to calcareous and salinity stress conditions. Both individual and combination treatments increased the stem diameter, shoot fresh and dry weights, yield, yield components and oil yield, as well as the concentrations of K, Ca, P and Zn and the K/Na ratio, whereas they decreased the Na concentration in the two growing seasons. The best results were obtained due to the K + Zn + Spd treatment in both seasons. These results provide support for foliar application of K and Zn as well as seed soaking with Spd to alleviate the harmful effects of calcareous and salinity stress and enhance the ability of sunflower plants to tolerate these adverse conditions.

Summary in Arabic.

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