Allelopathic Effects of Eucalyptus Tereticornis on Phaseolus Vulgaris Seedlings

Abstract

The water extracts of leaves (green, brown and decayed stages) and bark of Eucalyptus tereticornis were tested for seed germination and primary root and shoot development of Phaseolus vulgaris seedlings. There was no significant difference in the germination percentage of Phaseolus vulgaris due to the treatments of water extracts of leaves and bark of Eucalyptus, also affected the development of the seedlings. Leachates from green and brown leaves of Eucalyptus were found to be most inhibitory in primary root development. Affected seedlings produced a curved blunt – ended extension of the root – shoot transition region which was devoid of a root cap and root hairs. Inhibition of root development in affected Phaseolus seedlings was attributed to an unknown water soluble substance(s) present in leachate.

Keywords: Release of chemicals, Allelopathy, Eucalyptus tereticornis, seedling growth, inhibition.