Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soil: Experimental Application of Luffa Cylindrica (Sponge Gourd)

This study investigated the potential of applying Luffa cylindrica to Phyto remediate heavy metal contaminated soils. Potted experiment was conducted using heavy metal contaminated soils sampled from Sunyani magazine, an enclave of auto-mechanic garages. A control experiment was also conducted with soil from the UENR Forest vegetation. Initial soil concentrations of mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) were analysed. The Luffa plant was then planted in the soil (potted experiment) and monitored for 12 weeks after which final soil concentrations of the respective metals were determined. Increase in leaf size and plant length were measured as proxy for plant growth. The Luffa showed greater growth in the control soil from the Forest vegetation soil. Significant reductions in heavy metal concentrations were observed in both the experimental and control soils after the planting of Luffa cylindrica. The Magazine soil was more contaminated than the Forest vegetation soil because of the automobile repair activities that goes on at the site. Reduction in the concentration of the heavy metals in the soils after the experimental application of Luffa cylindrica proves its ability to Phyto remediate the heavy metals.