Influence of aluminium on plant growth and mineral nutrition of barley

Barley seedlings were grown in hydroponic culture to study the effect of Al on plant growth and mineral nutrition. The dry matter yield of barley tops and roots decreased progressively with increased in Al nutrient solution level. Plants receiving Al and supplied with Fe as ferric‐EDTA or ferric citrate developed chlorotic symptoms but plants receiving Fe as ferrous sulphate did not. The concentrations of K, Ca, Mg and Mn were depressed substantially in tops and roots. Phosphorus concentration was lower in the tops of Al effected plants, but concentrations in roots were relatively higher than the control. Iron, Cu and Al accumulated in plants roots in Al solution, while Zn uptake by plant roots was stimulated by increased Al level in nutrient solution.