Seed germination and seedling vigour as influenced by pregermination seed treatment in Himalayan Dogwood (Benthamidia capitata Wall ex. Roxb.).

摘要

Influence of different treatments on seed germination and seedling vigour of Benthamidia capitata, involving water soaking (8, 16, 24, 32, 40, and 48 h), gibberellic acid soaking (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 mg-1), and sulphuric acid scarification (3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 min), was studied to identify the best responding presowing seed treatments. The greater seed germination, root, shoot, and seedling length, along with vigour index, were observed for 32 h water soaking, while 300 mg-1 of GA₃ treatment gave maximum seed germination and seedling vigour. However, seed treated in sulphuric acid for 6 min produced the maximum number of elite seedlings. Among the pretreatments, sulphuric acid was found to be the most effective scarifying agent for breaking physical seed dormancy, but the risk associated with the handling of acid for both seeds and humans requires consideration. In this context, water soaking for 32 h appears to be the most promising method for nursery growers as it is eco-friendly, economical, and easy to apply.