Effect of Cadmium Pollution on the Germination and Growth of Phaseolus vulgaris L.

Abstract

Phaseolus vulgaris L. seeds were grown in soil treated with different concentrations of cadmium to investigate its effect on germination and growth. The seeds were sown in three replicates of 5 kg soils treated with 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg of cadmium and control. Toxicity effects increased with increasing concentration. Germination was significantly affected as data recorded for the various treatment showed great inhibition along the concentration gradient. Cadmium treated soil of 100 mg/kg caused death to experimental plants before 28 days. The effects of cadmium on the growth (number of leaves, height, leaf area, flower production and root length) showed a similar trend.