Growth and ionic relations of fodderbeet and seabeet under saline environments

Growth and ionic relations of fodderbeet (Beta vulgaris) and seabeet (B.maritima) were studied in a greenhouse experiment using garden soil salinized with 200 mM NaCl. Both the species tolerated salinity level of 200 mM NaCl, but seabeet performed better than fodderbeet. Fresh weight of shoot increased significantly (P< 0.01) under higher salt concentration in both the species. Fodderbeet accumulated more biomass under saline conditions than seabeet. Salt treated plants accumulated significantly higher Na⁺ and CI^? content in shoot compared to untreated control plants. Chloride (CI^?) of seabeet root was significantly higher than shoot; however, chloride content of shoot was significantly lower in fodderbeet. The concentration of these ions was comparatively higher in seabeet root than fodderbeet in the later growth period. Potassium K⁺ content was low and revealed antagonistic effect with that of Na⁺ content. Calcium (Ca⁺²) ions were not significantly absorbed by shoot of both species. A significant effect of treatment by the root has been observed in both species. Magnesium (Mg⁺²) content of shoot were increased with the time. Seabeet has absorbed more Mg⁺² than fodderbeet. The fodderbeet showed a significant salt tolerance during five week growth period. Seabeet is comparatively more salt tolerant. Domesticated cultivars of fodderbeet like Majorai have considerable adaptability in the inland salt affected areas of Pakistan.