Research Article | Published: 01 December 2000

Seed characteristics and germination of Portin tree (Thespesia populnea (Linn.) Soland ex Correa)

S. Abdul Kader and K. C. Chacko

Indian Journal of Forestry | Volume: 23 | Issue: 4 | Page No. 428-432 | 2000
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-2000-EWA6PW | Cite this article

Abstract

Thespesia populnea (Linn.) Soland ex Correa of Malvaceae family, is a multipurpose tropical tree. About 6100 seeds weigh a kg at 12.31% moisture content. The seeds have 0.43 mm thick hard seed-cost constituting 51% of the seed biomass. Hard seed-cost poses problem for germination. Germination can be enhanced from 2.3% (untreated) to over 75% either by nicking or by scarifying the seed-coat for 20-60 minutes using 95% concentrated sulphuric acid. For scarification 500 ml acid is required for a kg of seeds. Nicked and scarified seeds start germination from the fourth day and give a cumulative germination of 75.8% and 85% respectively in two weeks. Although nicking gives early and slightly higher germination, acid scarification is convenient for commercial use. Germination in T. populnea is epigeal. In the best presowing treatments germination commences on the fourth day and stabilizes 20 days after sowing.

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How to cite

Kader, S.A. and Chacko, K.C., 2000. Seed characteristics and germination of Portin tree (Thespesia populnea (Linn.) Soland ex Correa). Indian Journal of Forestry, 23(4), pp.428-432. https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-2000-EWA6PW

Publication History

Manuscript Published on 01 December 2000

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