Evaluation of okro (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench.) exposed to paint waste contaminated soil for growth, ascorbic acid and metal concentration

Abstract

Six (6) accessions of okro (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench.) were evaluated for growth in paint waste contaminated soil. Estimates of number of flower buds, flowers formed, fruits and days to 50% flowering were recorded. Others were fresh and dry weights, Fe and Pb concentrations in plant parts (root, stem and fruits), and ascorbic acid content of dry fruits. Soil chemical analysis revealed increased levels of pH, organic C, K, Ca, Na and Al. Generally, the contaminant decreased fresh weight of fruits, whole plants, average number of flower buds and flowers formed. In two of the six accessions, the flowering occurred earlier when compared with control and others experienced delay in contaminated soil. Also, the levels of ascorbic acid content of dry fruits were higher in three accessions. A. esculentus demonstrated the ability to take up Fe and Pb from soil and their translocation up to the fruits from roots. Fe concentration in plant tissues were higher in the plant grown in contaminated soil. The least concentrations of Fe in tissues were observed in the fruits. The Pb concentration in plant tissues of plants grown in both control and contaminated soil were far less than the soil concentration observed. Pb was detected in all tissues analysed (root, stem and fruit) indicating its translocation from the root through stem to fruits