Interaction Effects of Paclobutrazol and Salinity on Photosynthesis and Vegetative Growth of Strawberry Plants

Strawberry plants (Fragaria x ananassa Duch) are very susceptible to salinity. To investigate the interactive effects of paclobutrazol (PP333) and salinity on gas exchange and growth factors of the plant, 3 levels of NaCl [0, 5, 10 mM] were incorporated into the nutrient solution, and 4 levels of PP333 [0, 10, 20, 30 mg/L] were applied by means of foliar sprays. Increased levels of salinity and PP333 resulted in reduced leaf area. The highest level of PP333 resulted in reduced shoot dry weight. Foliar application of 20 mg/L of PP333 mitigated detrimental effects of salinity on root dry weight and total plant dry weight. PP333 also mitigated negative effects of increased salinity on photosynthetic rate (A), water use efficiency, relative water content and chlorophyll content. Increased salinity and PP333 caused reductions in stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E), number of runners and petiole length. Specific leaf weight was increased by both salinity and PP333.