Specific effects of certain salts on germination, fresh weight and dry weight in ricinus seeds

Abstract EN

The effects of potassium and magnesium chlorides and sulphates on germination and changes in fresh weight and dry weight of castor bean seeds were studied.

Salinity greatly affected the germination of castor bean seeds.

There was a positive correlation between germination and the changes in fresh and dry weights of the seeds.

Poorest germination coincided with the least water uptake (lowest fresh weight) as well as with the highest dry weights.

Growth of castor bean seedlings as governed by the increased in the fresh and dry weight of the axis-was markedly retarded under all salt treatments.

Magnesium had a more retarding effect on germination and growth of axis than isoequivalent concentrations of K+" particularly in the moderate and high concentrations used.