Comparative effects of nitric oxide and salicylic acid on salinity tolerance in saffron (Crocus sativus)

Salinity is a major environmental stress worldwide that adversely affects plant's growth and metabolism. Various studies have demonstrated the positive effect of growth regulators on improving stress tolerance of plants. In this study, Crocus sativus as a profitable herb and expensive spice was subjected to nitric oxide and salicylic acid treatments to improve its sustainability under salinity stress. Based on our results treating Crocus sativus corms with nitric oxide caused more growth under salinity stress, also nitric oxide was able to reduce stress effects by compatible solutes accumulation, inducing antioxidative enzyme activities and increasing the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. However, salicylic acid treatment did not improve plant growth under salinity.

Automated summary

The study showed that treating Crocus sativus with nitric oxide improved plant growth under salinity stress by promoting compatible solutes accumulation, inducing antioxidative enzyme activities, and increasing the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Conversely, salicylic acid treatment did not have a positive effect on plant growth under salinity stress.