NaCl enhanced the vegetative growth of halophyte Suaeda salsa by improving the ability of antioxidant and osmotic adjustment

To evaluate the effect of a long-term NaCl supply on the vegetative growth of Suaeda salsa, the plant growth indicators and resistance indicators were investigated. Results showed that compared with control, 200 mM NaCl in the growth medium significantly increased the plant height, branch number, fresh and dry weight, the content of soluble sugar and protine, and reduced the membrane relative conductivity and MDA content of S. salsa plants. While the higher concentration (400 mM) NaCl, supplied in the growth medium, significantly increased the MDA content and the membrane relative conductivity of S. salsa, as well as the soluble sugar and protine content. However, the plant height, branch number, fresh and dry weight of S. salsa treated with 400 mM NaCl was decreased when compared with the treatment of 200 mM NaCl. It indicated that a certain concentration of NaCl could significantly increase the vegetative growth process of halophyte S. salsa, long-term treatment with lower or higher concentration of NaCl may inhibit the growth of S. salsa, the plant height and weight was lower than plants from 200 mM NaCl treatment.