Impact of salinity and calcium stress on some properties of Isabgol (Plantago ovata)

To investigate the influence of salinity and calcium (Ca) on some properties of Plantago ovata, a pot factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replicates was conducted in Jiroft, south of Kerman Province, Iran. Three salinity levels of 0, 100 and 200 mM NaCl and Ca levels of 0, 5 and 10 mM Calcium nitrate were applied as the first and second factors, respectively. Results showed that salt levels significantly affected plant height, dry weight, number of spikes per plant, spike length, number of seeds per spike, mucilage and 1000 seed weights. Maximum values for the measured variables were obtained in control and the minimum values in 100 mmol sodium chloride. The effect of Ca on these traits was significant as well; it diminished the adverse effects of salinity. In addition, the interactive effects of salt and Ca on all the above traits were remarkable except for mucilage and spike length on which no significant effect was observed.