Effects of Seed orientation and sowing depths on Germination, Seedling vigor and yield in Oleaginous type of Bottle gourd, Lagenaria siceraria (Molina Standl)

摘要

Lagenaria siceraria is most prized in African society. But its production remains low due to low rate of germination and bad seedling vigor. Use of a good sowing technique could contribute to increase germination rate and seedling vigor. In this context optimization of seeds orientation and sowing depth are essential in cultural practices. This study was conducted to determine the appropriate sowing depth and seed orientation for a good germination, seedling vigor and best yield. Three sowing depths (2 cm; 6 cm; 10 cm) and four orientation (vertical with the extremity of the seed upward (VU); or with the extremity of the seed downward (VD); horizontal with the seed on the side (HS); with the seed on the flattened face (HF)) were tested. According to seed orientation, germination was better in horizontal position, but the best seedling vigor was recorded with vertical position VD. The highest grain yield was obtained in vertical position VU. Concerning sowing depth results showed that germination was better when seeds were sown at 2 cm. But plants were stronger at sowing depth 10 cm. The highest grain yield was recorded at sowing depth 10 cm too. But best results were recorded with combination HF and sowing depth 10 cm.