Evaluation of morphophysiological characteristics of wheat genotypes in different foliar spraying treatments under normal conditions and salinity stress

Abstract

Salt stress is one of the major factors that decreases wheat yield. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of K, SA, and GABA application on yield components, grain yield, and nutrient uptake in high-salinity in wheat genotypes. The research was conducted as a split plot based on a randomized complete block design with three replications under normal as control, and salinity (8 dS/m) conditions. The main plots included foliar application with growth stimulants (K, SA, GABA, and control), and subplots encompassed seven wheat genotypes. The salinity caused a 49.95% decrease in grain yield compared to normal conditions. The Mihan genotype showed the highest grain yield when treated with potassium (10970.6 kg/ha), GABA (11370.1 kg/ha), and salicylic acid (10650.1 kg/ha) under non-stress conditions. Furthermore, under salinity conditions, the Mihan genotype sprayed with potassium (7036.1 kg/ha) and GABA (5070.1 kg/ha) produced the maximum grain yield. Foliar spraying with potassium and GABA in both conditions improved the Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn content in grains compared to control. Exposure to salt stress caused a decrease in iron (50.05%), copper (27.86%), and magnesium (18.86%) content in the seeds. Treatments with potassium and GABA in both conditions increased the Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn content in grain. The highest nitrogen and potassium content and lowest sodium content in leaves were observed in Mihan genotype sprayed with K. Therefore, foliar application of K and GABA can moderate the effects of salinity on wheat.