Use of halophyte plants on saline soils and evaluation of salt removal efficiency

¹ National Research University “Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers”, Kori-Niyoziy str. 39, 100000 Tashkent, Uzbekistan
² University of Algarve, Faculty of Science and Technology, Gambelas Campus, Building 8, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
³ Fergana State University, 150100 Fergana, Uzbekistan

^* Corresponding author: g.bekmirzaev@tiiame.uz

Abstract

The main purpose of the study was to evaluate of effectiveness of the halophyte plants on saline soils and use as a salt-tolerant plants. The experimental studies carried out on the halophyte plants (Tetragonia tetragonioides and Portulaca oleracea) and the salt-sensitive crop (Lactuca sativa, L) in the greenhouse. Two experimental studies were conducted on the effects of salt on germination, total yield and mineral composition of the halophyte plants and salt-sensitive crop. Three salinity treatments (saline water solution with NaCl: T1 - 5 dS m⁻¹; T2 - 9.8 dS m⁻¹; and T3 - 20 dS m⁻¹) and a control treatment (T0 - 0.6 dS m⁻¹) were used for the experimental study. The both halophyte plants showed the potential salt (ions) removing species with high yields when grown on saline soils. The results showed that the above halophytes varieties contributed to improved quality and yield of the salt-sensitive crop. Thus, this method has proven to be one of the important solutions in preventing and managing salinity and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural systems. Analysis of the obtained results showed that halophyte plants could be used to improve the management and stability of saline soils and grow them as food crops.