Impact of Heavy Metals on Plant Growth and Accumulation Patterns in a Controlled Pot Study

Abstract

This study explores the effects of various heavy metals on plant growth and metal uptake through a pot experiment using soil samples collected from five industrial areas of Chhattisgarh. Plant growth parameters, along with Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) and Translocation Factor (TF), were analyzed by using standard methods. Findings indicated that Cu and Zn enhanced plant biomass, whereas Ni exhibited significant toxicity and reduced growth. The variation in BCF and TF across metals and locations highlighted differences in metal uptake and movement within plants. Controlled pot studies provide a valuable means to investigate these effects under specific conditions and assess the potential for phytoremediation. The results underscore the importance of selecting suitable plant species for phytoremediation based on contamination type and site characteristics, offering valuable insights into sustainable soil restoration strategies.