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BREAKING DORMANCY AND IMPROVING GERMINATION IN SEEDS OF Solanumaethiopicum L. (SCARLET GARDEN EGG)

Oyetunji, O.S.*, Alonge, F.O., Ogun, M.L., Adebayo, A.O.

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ABSTRACT

Introduction: Solanumaethiopicum (Scarlet eggplant) is an important vegetable in Africa due to the crop’s medicinal and economic purposes, but it faces seed dormancy challenges which affect its germination. This study wasaimed at breaking seed dormancy and improvingseed germination in seeds of S.aethiopicum.

Methods:The seeds of S.aethiopicum used in this study were locally sourced from a market in Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos, Nigeria. The seeds of S. aethiopicum were subjected to different dormancy breaking methods including chemical scarification, mechanical scarification, pre-chilling and hot water treatments.

Results: The seed germination of S.aethiopicumwas highest in seeds withpre-chilling treatment for 48 hours the germination percentage being at 36%.KNO₃ and H₂SO₄ had a significant effect in breaking seed dormancy at 0.75% and 5% concentrations respectively while HCl at 10% and 20% concentration significantly broke seed dormancy. H₂O₂ and hot water treatment improved germination of the seeds. Also, the seeds were destroyed at higher chemical concentrations. Mechanical scarification and control recorded no germination after 14 days

Conclusion:The study showed that the seeds of S.aethiopicum are naturally dormant but pre-chilling the seeds and use of chemical treatments can help in overcoming its seed dormancy and improve germination.

Keywords: Seed dormancy, mechanical scarification, chemical scarification, pre-chilling treatment, Solanumaethiopicum.