Impacts of Maternal Genotype on Pecan Seedling Performance in an Alkaline, Saline-sodic Soil

A field study was conducted to evaluate tolerance of pecan rootstocks soil salinity and sodicity. Seven cultivars—Elliott, Giles, Ideal, Peruque, Riverside, ‘Shoshoni, VC1-68—were selected from a range geographic regions origin. The the experimental plot poorly drained, saline–sodic Pima silty clay variant. irrigation water moderately saline mix Gila River local groundwater with an electrical conductivity 2.8 dS⋅m –1 , containing primarily ions Na Cl. Eighty seeds each cultivar were planted in greenhouse late Feb. 2016; 48 seedlings transplanted into plots 2017. Half trees received soil-based application Zn–ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at planting. observed rated for both vigor resistance salt injury on seven separate occasions. Trunk diameter measured dormant season. Leaf samples collected 9 Oct. 2019 6 2020, analyzed nutrient content. Zn-EDTA not found have significant effect growth, vigor, or injury. ‘Elliott’ exhibited greater alkaline, conditions than other cultivars. ‘Giles’ ‘Peruque’ most severely affected. Resistance (ranging marginal leaf burn necrosis entire leaf), growth correlated more strongly foliar concentrations Cl K during 2019. Vigor significantly Na, Cl, 2020. K:Na ratio had nearly equal correlation that alone However, although stronger K, strongest In only ratio. 2020 concentration.