Influence of seed orientation and depth of sowing on germination and vigour of An j an (Hardwickia hinata Roxb)

Abstract

Influence of seed orientation and depth of sowing on germination, seedling emergence and seedling vigour in Anjan (Hardwickia binata Roxb) was investigated. The seeds collected from 20- year old trees were sown in sand filled earthen pots at 1.5,3.0 and 5.0 cm depths, adopting three orientations of the embryo viz., up right (embryo facing up), horizontal and inverted positions. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design. Percentage germination, root and shoot length and dry matter production were measured and the vigour index was calculated. Placing the seeds with the embryo in a horizontal or inverted position at a depth of 1.5 cm and 3.0 cm resulted in early and higher germination, higher root and shoot length, greater dry matter production and vigour index.