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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Early Access

Effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the vegetative growth and leaf anatomy of Phaseolus vulgaris L. under salinity stress

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.14994
Submitted
13 April 2026
Published
02-07-2026
Versions

Abstract

Foliar-applied zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are a promising way to reduce the harmful effects of salt stress on Phaseolus vulgaris L. growth and leaf structure. A greenhouse experiment was conducted during the 2025–2026 growing season at Tikrit University. Salt stress (0, 1, 3 and 5 g L-1 NaCl) and foliar-applied ZnO nanoparticles (0, 25, 50 and 75 mg L-1) were evaluated to determine their impacts on plant growth and yield. Three representative plants per experimental unit were sampled. Plant height, number of leaves, individual leaf area, total leaf area, number of nodes on the main stem, main stem diameter, dry matter content and chlorophyll content were measured. Leaf anatomical traits, analysed including stomatal traits and tissue thickness of the leaf blade and petiole, were analysed using standard microscopic techniques. Zinc oxide nanoparticles, salinity and their interaction significantly affected the growth and anatomical traits of P. vulgaris. The highest ZnO concentration of 75 mg L-1 enhanced plant height, leaf number and leaf area compared to the control. Conversely, salt stress reduced most growth parameters; the control exhibited the highest values, whereas higher salinity levels caused reductions. Maximum growth was observed under non-saline conditions combined with the highest ZnO dose. Leaf dry matter and total chlorophyll content were also significantly enhanced by nano-zinc, while stem diameter had remained unaffected. Anatomical traits showed that nano-zinc improved stomatal dimensions, frequency and leaf tissue thickness, whereas salt stress caused reductions. Overall, ZnO nanoparticles enhanced the vegetative and anatomical traits of bean plants and partially offset the salinity stress, with optimal effects at 75 mg L-1.

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