Electromagnetic water enhanced metabolism and agro-physiological responses of potato (Solanum tuberosum L) under saline conditions

Saline irrigation compromises the utility of agricultural soil, limiting ion uptake and productivity worldwide. Electromagnetic water might provide a possible solution to enhance ion mobilization. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of saline irrigation on yield, metabolism and some physiological traits of potato over two growing seasons. The drip experiment treatments comprised the following: saline water (SW), electromagnetic saline water (MSW) and ground water (C) applied to three potato varieties (Spunta, Bellini and Alaska) since vegetative growth stage (12 days after planting). Results showed that soil salinity was reduced by 25% under MSW relative to SW. Both C and MSW had a promotional effect on root growth. Tuber number was increased with MSW in Spunta and Alaska. The highest values of photosynthesis, water status attributes and ion content of Alaska variety were associated with an elevated StSOS1 expression level. The effective osmotic adjustment with proline for Spunta and Alaska varieties was associated with differential expression of proline synthesis (StP5CS1) and catabolism (StP5CDH) genes. Accordingly, Alaska seems to be more resistant to salinity than Spunta and Bellini, and electromagnetic water may be useful to enhance potato production in areas suffering from water salinization.