Maximizing seed germination in two Acacia species

Abstract

Revegetation of disturbed land, particularly in arid environment, is often hindered by low seedling establishment. Information on seed biology and germination cues of valuable species is lacking. We investigated seed germination of two Acacia species (Acacia tortilis (Forsk.) Hayne and Acacia oerfota (Forssk) schweinf), required for nitrogen fixation and rehabilitation of arid and semi-arid areas.(four pre-germination seed treatments were applied in order to find the best treatment in germinating acacia species. The medium was L ₂ and three replicates were used. Seeds pre-treated with sand paper and also with H₂SO₄ and then H₂O₂ had the highest germination percentage in both species. The lowest germination percentage resulted from soaking seeds in water for 48 h followed by soaking in H₂SO₄ for A. oerfota and from soaking in water for 24 h for A. tortilis. Because the use of sand paper is difficult and time consuming, we recommend pre-treatment of A. tortilis and A. oerfota seeds with H₂SO₄ and H₂O₂ before planting. Our study results are significant for conservation agencies with an interest in optimizing germination in arid zones for rehabilitation and reforestation.

Keywords

Acacia spp / L ₂ medium / seed pre-germination / germination percentage / germination speed

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