Journal of Environmental Biology

Effect of  salicylic acid  on morphological and biochemical attributes in cowpea

A. Chandra*,  A. Anand and A. Dubey

Crop Improvement Division, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi-284 003, India

(Received: July 01, 2005 ; Revised received: November 25, 2005 ; Accepted: January 17, 2006)

Abstract: Effects of salicylic acid (SA) on seed germination, seedling growth, flowering  and biochemical activities were studied out in four cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) genotypes in control  environments. The results revealed that both germination and seedling growth were negatively affected by 0.02%. SA application, however did not affect the size of full expanded buds, time of 50 % flowering and date of flower initiation.  A maximum increase in peroxidase (EC1.11.1.7) activity was observed in UPC 4200 over other genotypes. No significant change in the content of total soluble and intercellular fluid proteins was observed except in UPC 4200 genotype. SA induced accumulation of total soluble sugars more at flowering stage than at seed setting stage.  It is evident from the present study that UPC 4200 genotype was more responsive to salicylic acid both in terms of increased peroxidase activity and less negative effect on morphological attributes, thus suggesting its wider use without negative impact on environment as salicylic acid has been reported in plants.

Key words:  Flower initiation, Intercellular fluid proteins, Peroxidase activity, Salicylic acid, Seed germination, Sugars

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