Alleviation of salinity effects using plant growth regulators in wheat

A field experiment was conducted to study the harmful effects of salinity and their amelioration by the application of plant growth regulators, viz. cycocel, maleic hyderazide, benzyladenine and mixtalol on physiological, biochemical and yield attributes of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Salinity was found to significantly decrease photosynthetic rate, total chlorophyll content, cell membrane stability, reducing sugar content, plant height, leaf area index, test weight, number of grains/ear, number of tillers, grain and straw yield compared to non saline field. Application of plant growth regulators ameliorated the effect of salinity on these physiological parameters. A significant increase in grain nitrogen and protein contents was observed. Maximum increase in above parameters was recorded by the use of benzyladenine at 75 mg l⁻¹ as compared to other concentrations and other plant growth regulators.