Effects of calcium and sodium on growth of papaya plants

Abstract

The objective of this investigation were to study the nature of papaya growth associated with Ca and Na and to determine the Ca critical concentration. Young papaya plants, grown in sand, were supplied with Ca solutions at 0.8, 3.0 and 7.5 milliequivalents dm-3 and Na at 1, 4, and 7 milliequivalents dm-3 in factorial combinations. An increase in Ca concentrations from 0.8 to 3.0 milliequivalents dm-3 resulted in increased weight of roots, stems and leaves as well as increased growth rate of the stem circumference and height. An increased in Na concentration from 1 to 4 milliequivalents dm-3 resulted in increased weight of roots and stems but not of leaves; growth rate of the stem circumference was increased but stem height was not affected. Maximum weight of the plant was attained at 0.50-0.64 wt% Ca, dry weight basis, in the immature petiole.