Effects of 'pristine' and 'industrial' simulated acidic precipitation on greenhouse-grown radishes

To test the effects of industrial rain on radish growth, two simulated rain solutions, at pH 4.8 and pH 4.0, were used. The solutions had ionic concentrations similar to average rainfall in Katherine, Australia and the Eastern United States, respectively, and were labeled 'pristine' and 'industrial'. These solutions were applied to greenhouse-grown radish every other day for 1 hr at the rate of 1 cm/hr, and the plants were harvested on day 30 after germination. In two trials, the major effect of the industrial rain treatment was to decrease root dry weight. Such a growth change could have major effects upon plant vigor, including decreased drought resistance and structural stability. © 1987.

Duke Scholars

Author William E. Winner DKU Faculty