ASPECTS OF SEED TREATMENT FOR GERMINATION IN Tamarindus Indica Linn

Abstract

Investigation were carried out to determine the effects of varying mechanical seed scarification, storage options, ratios of seed weight to hot water volume and ratios of acid concentrations to treatment time on the germination of Tamarindus indica seeds, a potential refforestation tree in marginal lands. Highest germination percentage of 90 was recorded in seeds scarified along the circumference. Germination was enhanced by increased acid concentration for 60 minutes. Highest percentage germination of 92 was obtained when seeds were treated with 10% sulphuric acid for 60 minutes. Seeds weight to acid ratio did not exert significant influence on germation potential. Poor germination response was obtained from hot water treatment. Highest germination value obtained from hot water treatment 65 per cent. Acid treated seeds stored in the refrigerator and laboratory maintained increasing germination percentage with time of storage. Irrespective of storage options, lower germination percentages were obtained in untreated seeds.