Phytoextraction of Lead and Chromium by Leafy Vegetables (Lettuce, Kale and Swiss Chard)

Abstract

This research was carried out to assess the accumulation of Cr and Pb in leafy vegetables (lettuce, kale and Swiss chard) in their harvestable part and root from artificially polluted soil with Pb and Cr. Soil sample was characterized for its pH, organic matter (OM), cation exchange capacity (CEC), electrical conductivity (EC) and texture. Soil sample digested by mixture of HNO₃ and HClO₄ was analyzed. Pb accumulation in shoot was on average greater (318.36 to 1235.20 mg/kg) in S₂ than S₁ (169.66 to 404.80 mg/kg). Translocation of Pb from root to shoot was enhanced by the addition of spinach extract in kale and Swiss chard. Chromium translocation from root to shoot in the vegetables was limited. Less than one TF of Cr was recorded in all plants of both soil samples. Cr except lettuce grown in PES₂, all the plants were able to accumulate less than 1000 mg kg^-1 in their shoot.

Keyword: Lead, Chromium, Photoextract