Effect of natural zeolite on growth parameters of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) in salinity condition

Salinity is one of the most important factors limiting growth and development in cultivated species. The effect of different levels of zeolite were studied on quality and quantity growth factors, salt deposition, sodium absorption ratio (SAR) and ion compositon in leachate. Saline water reduced visual turf quality ( VTQ), Total fresh and dry weight (TFW, TDW), Clipping dry and fresh weight (CDW, CFW), verdure dry and fresh weight (VDW, VFW), root fresh and dry weight (RFW, RDW), chlorophyll index (CI), stomatal conductance (SC), Mesophyll efficiency (ME), and water use efficiency (WUE) compared to control. Zeolite increased total parameters during both the 2nd & 3rd months. Highest effect obtained in highest percent of zeolite. After 3 months, the beneficial effects of zeolite on TQ and other parameters diminished. Amendment of sand with zeolite reduced leaching of Na and K but, increased leaching of Ca and Mg and SAR value in short-term. Results indicate that zeolite may buffer soil solution Na concentration. In the longterm, however, a substantial amount of Na may be retained concurrent with Ca and Mg exchange, thereby increasing sodicity and salinity problems.