The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the role of kinetin and spermidine in modifying the metal uptake and biomass accumulation by mash bean. Four mash bean varieties were grown in pots. In one group of plants, chromium (Cr) was added in doses of 30 and 60 mg kg-1 of soil material. In another group, lead (Pb) was added in doses of 20 and 40 mg kg-1 of soil material. Plants were sprayed twice, at the age of 20 and 30 days, with 1.0 mM strength of spermidine and 100.0 mM that of kinetin. Each treatment was replicated four times. The pots were arranged in complete randomization. Data of four replicates were taken at the physiological maturity of plants. Concentrations of chromium and lead elements in the root stem and seeds were determined, in addition to dry biomass. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using COSTAT statistical package software. Significant reductions were recorded in the concentrations of elemental heavy metals in the root, stem and seeds induced by kinetin and spermidine. Furthermore, biomass was increased by kinetin and spermidine. In plants grown under chromium stress, kinetin and spermidine were found more effective in reducing the concentration of chromium in roots and shoots but the analogous effect was insignificant regarding the reduction of chromium concentration in seeds. When lead stress was imposed, spermidine was found to be more effective in reducing concentrations of lead in the root and shoot but kinetin was proven to be less effective in this regard. The effects of both PGRs were found to be pronounced in alleviating the metals’ toxicities in terms of plant air dried biomass.

27.3.2022