Lead availability and phytoextraction in the rhizosphere of Pelargonium species

Availability of lead (Pb) in soil is a major factor controlling the phytoremediation efficiency of plants. This study was focused on investigating the plant-induced changes in rhizosphere and corresponding effect on bioavailable fraction of Pb and accumulation in different plant parts. For rhizosphere study, special cropping device was designed locally. Two Pb accumulator plants Stigmatocarpum criniflorum (L. f.) L. Bolus and Pelargonium × hortorum L.H. Bailey were grown in cropping device setup containing Pb spiked soil (500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg kg−1) for a period of 3 weeks. Further plants were also analyzed for Pb-induced oxidative stress. The results indicated higher ability of soil adjustment for Pb uptake by P. hortorum. The soil pH was (p < 0.05) decreased (ΔpH = − 0.22 pH), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) content was significantly increased (by 1.7-fold) in rhizosphere of P. hortorum. The bioavailable fraction of Pb was twofold higher in rhizosphere of P. hortorum than S. criniflorum at the same soil Pb concentration (2000 mg kg−1). Maximum Pb concentration in root and shoot of S. criniflorum was 755 ± 99 and 207 ± 12 mg Pb/kg DW and for P. hortorum was 1281 ± 77 and 275 ± 7 mg Pb/kg DW. P. hortorum uptakes more Pb per plant by threefold compared with S. criniflorum. The oxidative stress results indicated higher Pb tolerance and suitability of P. hortorum for phytoextraction of Pb-contaminated soil.