Assessment of salt resistance and performances of lid applicable plants

Abstract

Various kinds of plants are applied in low impact development (LID) facilities for the restoration of water circulation and removal of pollutants. However, de-icing substances affect plant growth retardation and cause withering of plants. The study was conducted to assess the effect of salinity on plant growth, pollutant removal efficiency, and water circulation recovery using eight kinds of plants. Selected plants applicable to LID are subdivided into three woody and five herbaceous plants. The results showed that herbaceous plants were more affected by air temperature and soil salt content than woody plants, thus showing higher withering rate. The average pollutant removal rate was over 80% due to combined soil and removal mechanisms of plants. Although withering of plants is not significant on pollutant removal efficiency, root depth, temperature sensitivity, and foliage biomass should be considered in determination of plants for enhanced LID facility performance and aesthetic value.