Alleviation of salinity effect on artichoke productivity by Bacillus subtilis supplemental Ca and micronutrients

Salinity is one of the most factors limiting bud yield and quality in globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) production. In this study, three strategies to alleviate the negative effect of salinity on artichoke productivity and quality were investigated. In sand culture, artichoke plants were exposed to NaCl-saline nutrient solution (6.5 dS m-1). The effect of inoculation of salt-stressed plants with Bacillus subtilis FZB24, supplemental red Ca into saline nutrient solution and foliar application of Fe, Mn and Zn were evaluated under greenhouse conditions in 2002. Salinity reduced vegetative growth and bud yield of artichoke plants, and even more lowered product quality. Ther were sharp increases of both Cl and Na contents in all plant parts by application of NaCl into the nutrient solution compared to the nonsaline control. The productivity was ameliorated by inoculation of salt-stressed plants with Bacillus subtilis FZB24 and nutrient additives as anti-salinity treatments. Application of Bacillus subtilis FZB24 ranked first to alleviate to adverse effects of salinity, followed by supplemental calcium into saline nutrient solution, while foliar application of a mixture of Fe, Mn and Zn showed almost no effect.