Growth response of <i>Ricinus communis</i> L (castor oil) in spent lubricating oil polluted soil

Abstract

The growth response of castor oil plant, Ricinus communis, in spent lubricating oil (SLO) was investigated using 1-6% w/w SLO and a control. The result showed that highest percent germination of approximately 92, was obtained in control and the least in 5% w/w. The early germination obtained in this study was significant when considered in the light of reported delay and depression of germination by spent lubricating oil in Capsicum annum, Lycopersicon esculentum, Solanum melongena and S. incanum. For parameters like plant height, stem girth, leaf area, fresh and dry weights, and root length, the mean values obtained were higher for 1% w/w than control. There was stimulation of growth at 1% w/w spent lubricating oil in soil. Plants in higher concentration (2–6% w/w) exhibited depression in growth. Plants grown in 1% w/w spent lubricating oil in soil flowered earlier than those grown in control. A difference of eight (8) days was observed.

Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management Vol. 9(2) 2005: 73-79