Germination Potential and Growth Behaviour of Eclipta alba
Abstract
Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine dormancy in Eclipta alba seeds. The effects of light, temperature, age of the seeds, simulated moisture stress, salt stress and variable pH were also studied. It was observed that the seeds germinated immediately after harvest and showed no dormancy. These possessed an absolute requirement of light for germination. 25°C was seen to be the optimal temperature for germination. These did not germinate beyond a water stress of −0.4 MPa. Low levels of salinity (0–120 mM NaCl) did not affect germination. Acidic pH completely inhibited germination. Only seeds at the surface layers of soil germinated. Those at a depth of even 2.5 cm did not germinate. Seed rain/m2 was observed to be 13, 63, 534. The results have been discussed in the light of literature available.
