S-Fertilizer (Elemental Sulfur) Improves the Phytoextraction of Cadmium through L.

Soil contamination with toxic heavy metals [such as cadmium (Cd)] is becoming a serious global problem due to the rapid development of the social economy. This study was carried out to assess the beneficial role of two different kinds of (S)-fertilizer in the phytoremediation of Cd contaminated soil through L. Gypsum (Gyp) and Elemental sulfur (ES) was applied alone and in combination with different ratios (0, 100:0, 0:100, 50:50 mg kg) accompanied by different Cd levels (0, 25, 50 mg kg). After seventy days of sowing, plants were harvested for determination of growth, physiological characteristics, oxidants and antioxidants, along with Cd uptake from different parts of the plant. Cd toxicity significantly inhibited growth, physiology and plant defence systems, and also increased Cd uptake in the roots and shoots of L. The application of Gyp 100 mg kg boosted plant growth and physiology along with oxidants and antioxidants activity as compared to ES 100 mg kg alone, and combine application of 50 + 50 mg kg. The application of ES 100 mg kg showed an effective approach to decreasing Cd uptake as compared to Gyp 100 mg kg. Overall results showed that the combined application of 50 + 50 mg kg significantly enhanced the phytoremediation potential of in Cd contaminated soil. Thus, it is highly recommended to apply the combined application of for phytoremediation of Cd contaminated soil.