Effects of Drought and Salinity Stresses on Milfoil Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) in Isfahan

In arid and semi-arid regions drought and salinity are the most limiting factors for plant growth. In this experiment drought and salinity tolerances of milfoil yarrow were determined under field conditions for three years (2010-2012). Treatments were five irrigation levels (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days intervals) and five salinity levels (2, 4, 8, 12 and 16 dS m-1). Color, survival rate, plant height, freshness, number and longevity of flowers and burning percentage were measured. Stresses had only a slight effect on growth and quality of the plants and plants maintained their quality within the acceptable range and survived under all levels of drought and salinity. Results suggested that this species could be used in urban landscape and for other purposes in arid and semi- arid areas where drought and salinity exist.