EFFECT OF DRUPE MATURITY ON SEED GERMINATION AND SEEDLING VIGOUR IN NEEM

Abstract

A study was carried out with seeds obtained from a 20-y-old neem tree (Azadirachta indica) at different drupe maturity stages, namely green (G), greenish-yellow (GY) and yellow (Y). Germination percentage, root and shoot lengths, dry matter production (DMP), vigour index (VI) and germination value were assessed. The results of the study showed that among the maturity stages, greenish-yellow drupes registered superiority over yellow and green drupes. Hence, for maximum vigour and viability of neem seed, the drupes should be harvested when they turn greenish-yellow (GY) in colour.