International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) |Volume IX, Issue IX, September 2022|ISSN 2321-2705
Effect of sodium chloride salinity on germination and growth of pumpkin seedlings in Maseno (Kenya)
George T Opande1*, Buyela D. Khasabulli2
1Sn Lecturer & Research Scientist, Kaimosi Friends University Dept. of Bio & Agri sciences, Kaimosi Kenya.
2Sn. Technologist, SPBS, Dept. of Botany, Maseno University Kenya.
*Corresponding Author
Abstract: Salinity is one of the most serious abiotic factors that limit agricultural productivity with an adverse effect on germination and growth parameters throughout the world. Sodium ions (Na+) and chlorides (Cl –) ions have been identified to turn agricultural land into unproductive lands unable to support the growth of plants for food and nutrient supplements which results in food insecurity. C. pepo L. plant is a fruit vegetable, a source of food, and nutrients, a medicinal and short seasoned crop that has not only been neglected but also is underutilized. The sodium Chloride salinity tolerance of C. pepo is not well understood; therefore this study was initiated to determine the effect of Sodium Chloride salinity on the germination and growth of C. pepo seedlings. Seed materials were purchased from the East Africa Seed Company (Kitale). They were carried in sealed labeled envelopes in the botany laboratory. The germination test was done using ten seeds under treatment of NaCl (Control 0, 35mM, 70mM, 105mM, and 140mM) using a completely randomized design. A growth experiment was set up in the greenhouse using varied salinity levels of NaCl (Control 0mM, 35mM, 70mM, 105mM, and 140mM). Growth parameters were collected after three days intervals for a period of one month. Chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll were estimated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) test (p≤0.05) showed that germination was inversely affected by salinity treatment with complete inhibition at higher concentrations. Salinity was significantly different as concentrations increased. Since C. pepo L. could withstand salinity levels of upto70 mM with germination of up to 47%, farmers within saline areas or those who use irrigation water should use water that has a salinity concentration that is not beyond 70mM.
Keywords: Salinity, Cucurbita pepo L., Sodium Chloride, Germination, Sodium ions, Chloride ions
I. INTRODUCTION
Salinity refers to the occurrence of high concentrations of dissolved major inorganic ions in solution which include Na2+, Cl-, SO42-and Mg2[1]. Salinity is one of the most serious factors that limit the agricultural productivity of crops with an adverse effect on germination, plant vigor, and crop yields [2] [3].
Salinization is a common problem in Kenya and occurs as a result of increased Sodium ions (Na+), Potassium ions (K+), Calcium ions (Ca2+), Magnesium ions (Mg2+), and Chloride ions (Cl-) [4]. Soils predominated by Na+ can become acidic and tend to have a very poor structure which limits water infiltration or drainage over a long period of time.