Effect of seed scarification methods on Mimosa pigra Linn. germination

Abstract

Dormancy is a condition in which seeds do not germinate despite the provision of suitable growth conditions. This study assessed germination percentage and germination rates of Mimosa pigra using different pre-sowing treatments. Seeds were sown in white plastic buckets filled with loose and well-drained river sand at a sowing depth of 3 cm. Bucket diameter was 22 cm and bucket depth from base to the brim was 24 cm. Four replicates of 100 randomly picked seeds at 25 seeds per bucket were used for each treatment and the buckets were laid out in a complete randomized design. Viable seeds determined by floatation method were subjected to pre-sowing treatments using control, 98% concentrated Sulphuric acid, hot water (wet heat) and physical abrasion for 40, 80 and 120 seconds. Data were subjected to statistical analysis. Results showed that physical abrasion resulted in the highest germination percentage of 74 to 83% and the lowest mean emergence time of 6 and 7 days while the control resulted in 16% germination rate and a mean emergence time of 23 days. Therefore, physical scarification is recommended for the propagation of Mimosa pigra for its medicinal use.