Morphological And Photosynthetic Characteristics Of Hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) Grown In Hydroculture With Landfill Leachate

Effective application of phytoremediation practices requires understanding of physiological responses of various plant species to heavy metal contamination in different environments. Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) as a multipurpose crop is a good model to study these processes thanks to it's economical value and sturdiness. Two cultivars of industrial hemp exposed to landfill leachate containing heavy metals were grown in hydroculture during a time period of four weeks. Morphological characteristics, photosynthesis and content of pigments were evaluated. Both hemp cultivars seem to present a suitable plant species for phytoremediation practices, at least over a short time period and as long as leachate concentration stays low.