Influence of Different Rates of Salinity on Flowering, Yield and Fruit Nutritional Value of Three Okra [<i>Abelmoschus esculentus </i>(L.) Moench] Cultivars in far North Region of Cameroon

Abstract

<i>Context: </i>Salinity is in coastal, arid and semi-arid regions a major constraint in the productivity and agricultural development around the world. <i>Objectifs: </i>The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of salinity on the growth, the nutritional value of the fruits of three okra (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus </i>L.) cultivars including two local (Javia and Parkwa) and a hybrid variety (Hire). <i>Methodology: </i>This is how four solutions of different NaCl concentrations from 0, 60, 120 to 240 mM were used to water okra plants at the four-leaves stage and this for two months in completely randomized device with four repetitions. <i>Results: </i>The results have differneces and similarities between the three varities during saline treatments. Salinity causes a decrease in growth, performance yield (from 0 to 240 mM NaCl to 28%, 23.6% and 22% in Parkwa, Hire, Javia cultivars respectively), mineral elements, antioxidants components and accumulation of Na content (to 45% in Parkwa, 23% in Hire and 18.4% in Javia from 0 to 240 mM NaCl) and flowering period (from 0 to 240 mM NaCl to 27.5%, 23.1% et 21.9% in Parkwa, Hire, Javia respectively). The reductions generated by salt have been less strong in Javia and Hire cultivars while the reductions were stronger at Parkwa cultivar. In addition, NaCl, at high concentrations, advantage of osmoticum accumulation involved in the osmotic ajustement mechanisms and would also serve as osmoprotector. Accumulation of osmolytes is salinity tolerance index that explains the maintenance of good water status in okra.<i> Conclusion:</i> Cultivars Javia and Hire were the most salt tolerant while the Parkwa was the most sensitive. The good behaviour of Javia and Hire varieties in the face of salinity can be considered for their use to better enhance the sahelian and coastal areas.