Physiological responses of summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.) under salinity stress

ABSTRACT: Soil salinity is one of the most important constraints that limit crop production in arid and semi arid regions. This research was carried out in order to test the effects of different salinity levels on some physiological parameters in savory (Satureja hortensis). The experiment was carried out using completely randomized blocks design in 3 replicate in 2011. Experimental treatment includes 4 levels of NaCl concentration including 0, 2, 4 and 6 ds/m NaCl. Result showed that salinity stress imposed negative effects on physiological parameters. By increasing salinity level chlorophyll b were reduced and chlorophyll a, chlorophyll a+b, electrolytes leakage, malondialdehyde and proline content increased. The highest accumulation of malondialdehyde and proline was obtained with 6 ds/m NaCl application. In general, results revealed that summer savory is sensitive to salt stress, which resulted in poor growth and quality.