The Interaction Effect of Salicylic Acid and High Temperature Stress on Some Physiological Characteristics of Maize (Zea mays L.)

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of salicylic acid and High temperature on physiological characteristics of maize (cv. SC704). In order to, a factorial experiment based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications was carried out in Research Greenhouse of Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan. The factors were included pre-treatment of concentrations of salicylic acid (0, 50, 100 and 200 μM) and duration of 40°C (0, 8, 16 and 24 hours). Results showed that SPAD index increased significantly in levels of 50 and 100μM salicylic acid but it was low in control and 200μM salicylic acid. In level of 50μM salicylic acid, increase in duration of heat stress was resulted in increasing content of a and ab chlorophyll. However, it was occurred conversely in level of 200 μM salicylic acid, i.e., content of a and ab was decreased. Levels of salicylic acid and duration of heat stress did not effect on Fv/Fm and content of soluble sugar. Use of 200 μM salicylic acid decreased significantly relative water content, while increase in duration of heat stress caused to increase relative water content. In addition, increase in duration of heat stress resulted in increasing leaf temperature and proline content.