Effect of salt stress on germination and early growth of Haloxylon persicum seedling

Fast germination in Haloxylon persicum is considered as an adaptation strategy to salty and drought areas, so that, if enough moisture is prepared for the seeds in a short period, the seeds can germinate and establish very fast. Germination of plants as an important growing stage, often influenced by environmental stresses, particularly salinity. This study was conducted to evaluate the salt tolerance in Haloxylon persicum, at the germination stage. Salinity levels, including 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450 and 500 mM (Nacl) were applied as randomized complete design with three replicates in the laboratory. Germination percentage and rate were measured in the Petri dishes, and radicle and stem let lengths were recorded at seedling stage. Although germination rate decreased with increasing salinity, but the results showed that Haloxylon persicum has about 43% seed germination in 350 mM Nacl and was able to withstand the salt content naturally. Results indicated that increasing salinity caused a significant (p<0.01) reduction in percentage germination and rate, radicle lengths, stemlet lengths and vigor index.