Two Salix genotypes (Salix alba, clone LUC-31—genotype I and Salix viminalis, clone STOTT—genotype II) were grown hydroponically for 14 d at increasing concentrations of cadmium (Cd) (0, 5, 10, and 15 μM) in order to study both Cd accumulation and genotype tolerance. Growth responses, photosynthetic performance, activities of metal-responsive enzymes, and changes in some nutrients content were used as evaluation criteria. The Genotype II assimilated more Cd (maximum leaf concentration 47.8± 2.9 mg Cd kg⁻¹ DW) compared with the Genotype I and, based on both morphological (root length, total biomass) and metabolic indicators (photosynthetic performance, activities of metal-responsive enzymes, changes in several nutrients), was classified as less tolerant to this heavy metal. However, it is considered to be more suitable for Cd phytoextraction, as it would compensate for its somewhat lower tolerance with its higher Cd accumulation, as well as its higher productivity under field conditions.

The effect of five washing treatments (unwashed, water washed, Tween 80 washed, 0.1 M HCl acid washed, and Tween 80-acid washed) is evaluated to remove nutrient element deposits from orange and peach leaves. Untreated leaves and leaves sprayed with a seaweed extract iron fertilizer in two dosages are compared. Micronutrients were more affected by the washing procedures than macronutrients. Acid detergent washing was the most efficient, especially as regards the micronutrients iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn). Copper (Cu) did not seem to be influenced by the washing method when leaves were foliar sprayed. The influence of the washing procedure on macronutrients is dependent on the plant species and on foliar treatments; in general, peach leaves are affected less by the washing procedure than orange leaves. Even with the most severe washing procedures, no macronutrient losses were found. Distilled water should be considered the most suitable washing procedure when macronutrients are of primary inter...