Salt in the soil can negatively impact plant growth by causing physiological drought, ultimately leading to reduced plant growth.
How Salt Impacts Plant Growth
The presence of excessive salt in the soil affects plants in several ways, primarily by hindering water uptake. Here’s a breakdown:
- Water Absorption Issues: Salts in the soil absorb water, which reduces the amount of water available for plants to absorb through their roots.
- Physiological Drought: This reduced water availability causes water stress and root dehydration, a condition known as physiological drought. Even if the soil is moist, the plant struggles to absorb the water. The reference states that physiological drought, if not corrected, can lead to reduced plant growth.
- Reduced Growth: If physiological drought persists, it will impede plant growth, leading to stunted development or even death.
