Efficiency of selected heavy metals accumulation by Salix viminalis roots

The efficiency of the absorption from the medium and accumulation by plant of ions of the heavy metals depends on many factors including plant age and its genotype. The heavy metals accumulation by 1-, 2- and 3-year-old plants was studied in the aspect of reclamation and revitalization effectiveness of demoted areas. Results of this study answer the question concerning the accumulation of seven heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) by willow cuttings (Salix viminalis) in environments with different concentrations of these elements. Cuttings used were originally grown on a substrate not contaminated with the metals and rich in nutrients. In order to eliminate the effect of soil physicochemical factors, the experiment was carried out using a hydroponic system. Results indicated significant effects of the investigated metal concentrations on their accumulation by willow. The extent of metal accumulation as an indicator of the remediation capacity of willow depended on the age of the cuttings used at planting.