Elevated salt stress level affected the productivity and chlorophyll content of Centella asiatica (L.)

Abstract

Salinity disrupts plant nutrient uptake, metabolism, and increases susceptibility to biotic stresses. This reduces nutrient use efficiency, leading to stunted growth and decreased productivity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the growth and yield performance of Centella asiatica L. under varying levels of salt stress. The research was conducted at the Germplasm Centre, Department of Horticulture, Patuakhali Science and Technology University. A randomized complete block design with four replications was employed, wherein five salt concentrations i.e., 0 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM, 150 mM, and 200 mM were applied in four replications on 20 pots. Data on various growth and yield parameters were taken in four installments: 21, 42, 63, and 84 days after transplanting. Results showed that the highest values for various parameters were observed in the control group (2.34 mM base value), with notable figures including number of leaves (258.5), number of runners (126.75), petiole length (9.38 cm), chlorophyll content (41.62 SPAD value), fresh weight of leaves (23.92 g), dry weight of leaves (7.97 g), fresh weight of shoot (1.84 g), and dry weight of shoot (0.61 g) at 84 DAT. Conversely, fresh weight and dry weight of roots peaked at 150 mM salt concentration (1.95 g and 0.65 g, respectively). The investigations revealed that as salinity levels increased, a gradual decline in growth parameters was observed, indicating a significant reduction in the growth and yield of C. asiatica. These findings highlight the sensitivity of C. asiatica to salt stress and underscore the importance of salinity management for optimal growth and yield.