INFLUENCE OF EXOGENOUSLY APPLIED SALICYLIC ACID AND PLANT GROWTH PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA INOCULATION ON THE GROWTH AND PHYSIOLOGY OF SUNFLOWER (HELIANTHUS ANNUUS L.) UNDER SALT STRESS

Present attempt is to evaluate the effect of Salicylic acid (SA) alone and in combination with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (Azospirillum and Pseudomonas) on sunflower plant under salt stress. Two hybrids of sunflower were inoculated with Azospirillum spp. and Pseudomonas spp. applied as seed soaking treatment prior to sowing. Salt stress (20dSm(-1)) was induced 28d after sowing. Foliar application of Salicylic acid (10(-4) M) was made 4h after induction of salt stress. The osmotic potential, antioxidants (SOD, POD) analyses were made from the plant leaves. Salicylic acid application alone and in combination with Azospirillum and Pseudomonas minimized the inhibitory effects of salt stress. The survival efficiency of Azospirillum and Pseudomonas under salt stress in the presence of Salicylic acid was higher as compared to salt treatment made alone. The salt tolerance in these treatments was mediated by increase in the superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities in leaves of sunflower and increase in growth of sunflower hybrids. The adverse effects of salt stress could be alleviated by foliar application of Salicylic acid used alone and more effectively in combination with Azospirillum and Pseudomonas inoculations.