Citrus response to salinity: growth and nutrient uptake.

To determine the effects of salinity on relative growth rate (RGR), net assimilation rate on a leaf weight basis (NAR(w)), leaf weight ratio (LWR), and nutrient uptake and utilization of citrus, we grew four citrus rootstocks (sour orange, Cleopatra mandarin, Carrizo citrange and Citrus macrophylla) in nutrient solutions containing 0, 10, 20, 40 or 80 mM NaCl for 20, 40 or 60 days. For each element analyzed, specific absorption rate (SAR) and specific utilization rate on a leaf basis (SUR(L)) were calculated for the period between Days 40 and 60. Relative growth rate decreased with time for all treatments and rootstocks. Salt treatment significantly reduced both RGR and NAR(w), whereas LWR showed no definite trend. In all rootstocks, NAR(w), but not LWR, was significantly correlated with RGR, indicating that NAR(w) was an important factor underlying the salinity-induced differences in RGR among the citrus rootstocks. At Day 60, salinity had a significant effect on leaf concentrations of Cl, Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Mn and Zn and on the SAR and SUR(L) of most elements. In general, RGR was correlated with SAR and SUR(L). Therefore, in addition to osmotic effects and the inhibitory effects of high concentrations of Cl(-) and Na(+), an imbalance of essential nutrients may also contribute to the reduction in plant growth under saline conditions.