Interactive effect of boron and salinity on growth, physiological and biochemical attributes of wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the interactive effect of salinity (125 mM) and varying concentrations of boron (B) (2, 4 and 6 mM) on the growth and biochemical attributes of wheat. Results showed that application of 4 and 6 mM B along with 125 mM NaCl significantly declined plant biomass and leaf length. The concentration of B in plant leaves was significantly lower in treatments where salinity and B were applied together as compared to individual applications of 2, 4 and 6 mM B. The membrane permeability and protein concentration were significantly increased by the combined application of NaCl and B, whereas the chlorophyll pigments were not influenced. The phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid concentrations were reduced with the individual applied 6 mM B and when combined with application of 125 mM NaCl + 6 mM B. The concentration of Milondialdehyde (MDA) gradually increased by increasing B application and maximum was at the highest level of B and NaCl stress. It is concluded that salinity worsens the deteriorating effect of boron toxicity on wheat growth.