The role of humic acid application in reducing detrimental effects of salt in cauliflower (Brassica Oleraceae L. Var. Botrytis)

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine effects of Humic Acid (HA) on yield and some quality characteristics of cauliflower under saline conditions. Control (0.3). 2, 4, 6, and 8 dS.m(-1) NaCl and 0, 1 and 2 g.kg . (1)HA combinations were applied to the growth medium. Salt application generally negatively affected yield and curd growth, and negative effects were mostly due to salt concentrations >2 dS.m(-1). Increasing salt concentration positively affected quality characteristics of curds, and the highest total acid contents of dry matter and total soluble solids were detected in salt concentrations of 6-8 dS.m(-1). The HA application tOr decreasing harmful effect s of salt brought to a successful conclusion in terms of total yield notably, and curd diameter and length, and the total amount of dry matter. While positive effects occurred mostly at salt concentrations >= 4 dS.m(-1); effects of HA application did not occur at NaC1 concentration of 6 or 8 dS.m(-1). Two g.kg(-1) HA produced better results for yield and curd weight, but application of 1 or 2 g.kg(-1) ILA produced similar effects for other parameters.