Investigating the vegetative growth and mineral elements uptake by Damask rose irrigated with various levels of Sodium Chloride

This study examined how salinity affects the growth and mineral uptake of Damask rose seedlings in hot and dry areas, where soil and salt water are major challenges for plant cultivation. Four levels of salinity (0, 25, 50, and 75 mM NaCl) were applied to the seedlings under field condition. The following traits were measured: wet and dry weights of shoots and roots, proline and malondialdehyde contents, guaiacol peroxidase and catalase activities, soluble carbohydrates, chlorophyll and carotenoid levels, and concentrations of nitrogen, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, copper, manganese, and zinc in the leaves. The results indicated that salinity reduced the vegetative growth and the chlorophyll and carotenoid levels of the seedlings. Salinity also increased the proline and soluble carbohydrate contents and the antioxidant enzymes activities in the leaves, which were biochemical responses to salt stress. Moreover, salinity disrupted the mineral balance in the leaves by increasing the sodium accumulation and decreasing the uptake of the other elements. To mitigate the adverse effects of salinity and supply adequate nutrients, the use of fertilizer solutions is recommended.