IMPROVING SEED GERMINATION OF DERRIS INDICA BY VERTICAL SOWING

Abstract

Seeds of Derris indica were sown by five different methods. Sowing the seeds vertically with the micropyle directed downwards gave the maximum germination of 92%. Vertical sowing with the micropyle oriented laterally and upwards recorded respectively germinability of 58 and 66%. Sowing the seeds flat gave germination of 72% indicating that micropyle orientation is more important than disposition of seed vertically or flat. Parameters like germination energy, germination value and emergence energy value were also high when seeds were sown vertically with the micropyle pointed downwards. The plausible reason for this is discussed. The study has failed to sustain the contention that germination is positively correlated with seed soil contact area. The study also indicates that presowing treatment with water is not necessary for maximising germination for this species.