Effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) petals on germination and primary growth of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.).

摘要

In the Khorasan province, cotton is a subsequent crop in saffron fields. A large amount of saffron petals is being disposed of each year instead of being used as a source of organic matter in soil. Two experiments was performed to investigate the effect of saffron petal water extracts on germination and primary growth of cotton under laboratory conditions. In the first experiment, the effect of different concentrations 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% made from 1% water extract, was studied on cotton (Var. Varamin) germination percentage, in a completely randomized design with 4 replications. In the second experiment, the effect of the same concentrations on coleoptiles and radicle lengths (measured every 12 hours) and their dry weight (at the end of the experiment) was studied in a completely randomized design with 4 replications. Results from the first experiment showed that different concentrations had no significant effects on germination percentage and radicle dry weight but had significant effects on coleoptiles dry weight. The highest coleoptiles and radicle lengths are observed in 50%-concentrations. In rainfed agriculture, long coleoptiles and radicles are usually very suitable. It was therefore concluded that 25%-concentrations of 1% water extract of saffron petals did promote coleoptiles and radicles in both experiments. This concentration is recommended.