Effect of cadmium chloride on seed germination and growth characteristics of cowpea (vigna unguiculata l.)‎ plants in the presence and absence of gibberellic acid

Abstract EN

Treatment of cowpea (Vegan unguiculata L.) with different concentrations of cadmium chloride CdCh2) decreased the generation percentage and the germination rate index (GRI).

However, the time period required to reach 50% of final germination (Gt50) increased.

This effect was dose-dependent, and was more significant at higher doses of CdCh2.

Application of GA3 reduced the inhibitory effect of CdCh2 by increasing the gennination vigor at low metal concentrations (20, and 40 ppm).

Cadmium chloride application significantly retarded shoots and root growth (length, fresh weight, dry weight, leaf area) compared to the untreated control plants.

This effect was more significant at the early phonological stage and was dose-dependent.

It decreased with further development.

The growth parameters of roots were more affected than shoots.

Treatment with GA3 ameliorated the inhibitory effect of CdCh2 hence, growth showed significant improvement, particularly when GA3 was applied to plants treated with 20 and 40 ppm CdCh2 at the intermediate stage of plants treated with 20 and 40 ppm CdCl2 at the intermediate particularly plant development.

Furthermore, shoots showed a more significant response to GA3 treatment compared to roots..