Effect of sodicity on growth and mineral composition of tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.).

Abstract

The effect of high soil concentrations of sodium (applied as sodium bicarbonate) on the growth of 8-month-old tamarind seedlings in pots was investigated. Plant survival decreased with increasing concentrations of Na (>30% exchangeable Na). Plant growth (height, stem diameter and number of branches/plant) and root weight (DW and FW) decreased with increasing concentrations of Na. Concentrations of N, K, P, Ca and Mg in plants decreased and the concentration of Na increased with increasing sodicity. It was concluded that tamarind can be grown in soils containing 45% exchangeable Na.