Effect of seed pre-treatments on germination of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
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Authors
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PREETI
Division of Seed Science and Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012
Author
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S.K. JAIN
Division of Seed Science and Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012
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D.K. JAIN
Division of Seed Science and Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012
Author
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H.C.S. NEGI
Division of Seed Science and Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012
Author
Keywords:
Withania somnifera, seed, pre-washing, dormancy, GA3, germinationAbstract
Effect of seed pre-treatments on per cent germination of different seed lots of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal) among various physical and/or chemical treatments applied, pre-washing the seeds in running water under laboratory ambient temperature increased this germination values due to removal of certain inhibiting chemicals accumulated in seed coat. Thus, pre-washing seed treatment in running water for ashwagandha ranked as the best followed by application of gibbrellic acid. Seed dormancy was due to certain chemicals present in seed coat, as pre-washing of seeds enhances seed germination. Pre-washing of ashwagandha seeds in running water, under laboratory ambient temperature ranked as the best, eco-friendly and economical.
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References
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