Inhibition in the growth of thistles (Cynara cardunculus L.) and lentils (Lens culinaris L.) due to chronic exposure to 50-Hz, 15-mu T electromagnetic fields

Cynara cardunculus L. (thistle) and Lens culinaris L. (lentil) seeds were c hronically exposed for 21 days to 50-Hz, 15-mu T electromagnetic fields (EM Fs) to prove that the findings obtained for animals using the same experime ntal model, reproducing the same powerline electromagnetic conditions, also hold true for vegetables. Measurements of total weight, stem weight, total length, and stem length were taken after 7, 14, and 21 days of exposure. A decrease in both weight and length of the thistle during the 3-week period was observed in the experimental with respect to the control groups, thus yielding significant differences on the 21st day (p < 0.001) for every para meter. The stem length of the lentils subjected to EMFs increased progressi vely with respect to the control group during the 3 weeks, but with fewer b ranches, a lower stem weight, and a lower total weight. These become signif icant differences after the 21 days of exposure (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, re spectively). The exposed lentil plants also showed a less vigorous and less green appearance. The planting medium (in both thistle and lentil) showed a higher degree of humidity and a higher aggregation under experimental con ditions. In conclusion, an inhibiting effect on the plants' growth has been generally observed.