SOIL salinity is now a global agriculture problem that limits the productivity of various plants. The yield of glycophytic plants have been affected because of the salt intolerance level due to the absorption of sodium and chlorine from soils.

Besides, environmental challenges, like climate change, have caused financial losses to the cultivators. Therefore, the rehabilitation of barren lands and the creation of new green belts are needed to curb the harmful effects of climate change. Moreover, the ever-increasing droughts have also decreased the glycophytic plant productivity. Under these challenging circumstances, halophytes represent the best solution to protect the environment. Halophytes and xero-halophytic species comprise more than 125 botanical families at the global level.

Under increasing drought and salinity conditions, the adaptability of halophyte ornamental species with high adaptability of various environments having astronomical floral and fragrance attractiveness can be a suitable option for the restoration of barren lands and for increasing the forest canopy level at both local and global levels.

Musadiq Manzoor

Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 17th, 2021