Influence of pre-sowing seed and pre-planting cutting treatments on germination and growth of Melia composita Willd. under nursery conditions

Abstract

Burma dek (Melia composita) has evoked much interest for growing under agroforestry plantations due to its fast growth, clear bole and local market for its wood. In present study, the germination indices in relation to drupe size (small, medium and large) and pre-sowing treatments were determined for two years. The highest seed germination (%) and germination value were observed in medium size seeds which were significantly higher than those recorded in large and small size. The highest germination (77.5 and 78.0%) was recorded in half cut drupes treatment in both the years and it was significantly higher than all other treatments. Significant effect of pre-planting cutting treatment and rooting media was observed on sprouting and rooting percentage. During spring season, maximum rooting (40.0%) was recorded in cuttings treated with IBA 3000 ppm which was significantly higher than all the other pre-planting cutting treatments. Among different rooting media, maximum rooting was recorded in cuttings planted in cocopeat media (26.67%). During rainy season, maximum rooting (36.67%) was recorded in cuttings treated with IBA 3000 ppm which was significantly higher than all other pre-planting treatments. Among different rooting media, maximum rooting was recorded in cuttings planted in perlite media (27.50%). The short-listed pre-sowing seed treatment can be used to speed up germination and to produce uniform seedling. However, the combination of pre-planting cutting treatment and rooting medium requires further refinement to improve the rooting percentage of cuttings and to standardize its production technology.