Growth, Biochemical Traits, Antioxidant Enzymes, and Essential Oils of Four Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Cultivated in Phosphate-Mine Residues

Abstract

Revegetation emerges as a promising approach to alleviate the adverse impacts of mining residues. However, it is essential to evaluate the characteristics of these materials and select suitable plant species to ensure successful ecosystem restoration. This study aimed to investigate the effects of phosphate-mine residues (MR) on the growth, biochemical properties, and essential oil concentration of <i>Rosmarinus officinalis</i> L., <i>Salvia Officinalis</i> L., <i>Lavandula dentata</i> L., and <i>Origanum majorana</i> L. The results showed that <i>R. officinalis</i> L. appeared to be particularly well-suited to thriving in MR soil. Our finding also revealed that <i>L. dentata</i> L., <i>O. majorana</i> L., and <i>S. officinalis</i> L. grown in MR exhibited significantly lower growth performance (lower shoot length, smaller leaves, and altered root structure) and higher antioxidant activities, with an alterations of photosynthetic pigment composition. They showed a decrease in total chlorophylls when grown on MR (0.295, 0.453, and 0.562 mg g^-1 FW, respectively) compared to the control (0.465, 0.807, and 0.808 mg g^-1 FW, respectively); however, they produced higher essential oil content (1.8%, 3.06%, and 2.88%, respectively). The outcomes of this study could offer valuable insights for the advancement of revegetation technologies and the utilization of plant products derived from phosphate-mine residues.