EFFECT OF HEAVY METALS IN SOIL SOLUTION ON PLANT GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Heavy metal contamination in soil solutions poses a serious threat to plant growth, agricultural productivity, and ecosystem health. This study investigates the effects of selected heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, and Cu) present in soil solution on the growth and development of cultivated plants. Experimental research was conducted under controlled laboratory and field conditions to assess the physiological, morphological, and biochemical responses of plants to varying concentrations of heavy metals in the soil solution. The results revealed that increased levels of heavy metals in the soil solution significantly inhibited plant growth parameters, including root length, shoot height, biomass accumulation, and chlorophyll content. Additionally, metal uptake by plants was quantified, and the accumulation patterns in plant tissues were analyzed. The study also identified threshold concentrations at which toxic effects became pronounced. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring heavy metal concentrations in agricultural soils and developing effective remediation strategies. The research contributes valuable insights into plant-soil-metal interactions and provides a scientific basis for improving soil quality and ensuring sustainable crop production in contaminated areas