Influence of planting density of growth and development of Salvadora persica grown on highly saline black soils

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted in Gujarat, India, during 1996-99 to identify optimal spacing/density for growing Salvadora persica on highly saline black soil (Vertic Ustochrepts). The species were grown at three spacings (2?2, 2?4 and 4?4 m) on soils of varying salinity. Results showed that plant height decreased with increase in salinity levels and the number of multiple shoots increased with increased spacing. However, high salinity has resulted in prolonged bud density and delay in bud-break causing growth reduction. Growth, measured in terms of biomass production of shoots, root and leaf, indicated higher plant biomass/plant at lower densities. Ionic content (i.e., sodium and chloride) estimated in different plant parts (physiologically mature leaves, senescing leaves, bark and wood of 3-year-old plants) indicated that sodium and chloride was found to accumulate in senescing leaves and bark tissue at all planting densities and all salinity levels. However, at higher planting densities, uptake of sodium and chloride was less at all salinity levels. Results suggest that in order to achieve better growth, biomass production and seed yield, a planting density of 4?4 m is optimum for planting of Salvadora on highly saline black soil.