Beneficial Elements Improve the Growth, Biomass Production, and Photosynthetic Pigments of Calendula officinalis L. Seedlings

Abstract

In this study, the effects of different concentrations of vanadium (V), selenium (Se), cerium (Ce), and iodine (I) on the growth parameters, biomass accumulation, and content of photosynthetic pigments during the seedling stage of marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) were evaluated. The beneficial elements V (3, 5, or 10 μM), Se (5, 10, or 20 μM), Ce (25, 50, or 100 μM), and I (5 or 10 μM) were applied once a week along with 50% Hoagland nutritive solution. Four applications were applied to the roots. Doses of 5 μM V and 50 μM Ce improved plant height, while 5 μM I promoted root growth. Leaf area and number of leaves increased with the application of 20 μM Se and 5 μM I, respectively. High concentrations of Se and Ce improved leaf dry weight, while 10 μM V increased the photosynthetic pigment content. The application of these elements contributed to the development and production of marigold seedlings during nursery growth. Additional key words: cerium, iodine, marigold, selenite, vanadium