Effect of Different Salinity Levels on Water Potential and Proline Content in Leaves of Various Rose Rootstocks

Eight rose rootstocks were grown at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 mmhos/cm of chloride dominant salinity levels. Rugosa and Banksae rose rootstocks failed to establish even in control. As the salinity levels were increased from 0 to 8 mmhos/cm, there was decrease in leaf water potential but progressive increase in leaf proline content was observed. Damask rootstock maintained the higher water potential (—13.4 bar) in comparison to others. Both tolerant and susceptible rootstocks accumulated sufficient amount of proline in their leaves.