EFFECT OF DIFFERENT FLUORIDE ION CONCENTRATIONS ON GERMINATION, VIGOUR INDEX, AND FRESH LEAF YIELD OF SPINACH (SPINACIA OLERACEA) VARIETIES

This research investigates the effects of fluoride ion concentrations on germination percentage, vigour index, and leaf yield of three spinach (Spinacia oleracea) varieties under pot culture conditions. Fluoride stress was imposed using sodium fluoride at 0, 25, 50, and 100 ppm. A clear dose-dependent reduction was observed across all parameters. Variety I demonstrated the highest tolerance, while Variety III was most sensitive. These findings emphasize the adverse impacts of fluoride stress on spinach growth and productivity, particularly in fluoride-contaminated soils of Fatehabad, Haryana.