The Effects of Different Seawater Salinity Solutions on Plant Growth

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this study is to see if diluting different seawater salinity levels would have a negative effect on plant growth and production. The purpose is to find an alternative water source for farmers during drought years. Methods/Materials Mixed ocean water and freshwater, measuring cups. Tested salinity levels with Hach Sension MM150, measured onions, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, tape measure, leaf count. Results The broccoli plants were not affected by any of the saltwater levels. The leaf count increased slightly in every level used. This shows that the seawater being irrigated was not impacting growth levels. Cauliflower also showed some of the same results except at 100% saltwater levels. Conclusions/Discussion Evidence showed that diluted saltwater will not effect the growth rate of certain plants, especially broccoli. I found that the 5% and 10% solutions all grew the best - proving that saltwater could be used as a form of irrigation for farmers. This is an alternative form of irrigating during drought years.

Competition history

• CSEF 2017 Plant Biology · Entry J1916

Resources

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