Response of maize and sorghum to excess boron and salinity

The effects of 50 mM NaCl and 5, 10, 15 and 20 mM boron on the rate of germination, growth rate, contents of boron, sodium, potassium and chloride, and membrane permeability in maize (Zea mays L.) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) were studied. Germination rate, lengths of roots and shoots as well as dry matter production in the two tested plants, decreased with the increasing B concentration in nonsaline conditions, and markedly under salinity. Membrane permeability increased by increasing B concentration only under salinity. Increase in B concentration of sorghum was lower under salinity when compared to nonsaline conditions. Contrary to this, increase in B concentration of maize was higher under salinity. Under salinity Na and Cl concentrations increased and K concentration decreased in the both tested plants. Potassium concentration was decreased by B treatments under salinity.