Growth of azadirachta indica and melia azedarach at coastal sand using highly saline water for irrigation.

Abstract

azadirachta indica and melia azedarach were grown at coastal sand using 10-30% dilutions of saline water; (EC1W : 4.5-14.0 dS.m-1). For irrigation . height and diameter of the plants decreased as compared to control plants which were irrigated with non-saline water. Plants irrigated with saline water showed an increase in moisture content and decrease in chlorophyll , sugar and protein content associated with an increase in proline. Under saline water irrigation M. azedarach showed rapid growth than A. indica . these plants could, therefore, be grown for afforestation at sandy deserts using underground saline water for irrigation where normal non-saline water is not available.