PHYSICO-CHEMICAL METHODS FOR OVERCOMING HARDSEEDEDNESS IN CASSIA ITALICA (MILL.) SPRENGEL SEEDS

Abstract

Initial percentage of dormant seeds in Cassia italica was around 86. It was
observed that in this species is mainly due to impermeability of seed coat to
water. Treatment of the seed coat with concentrated sulphuric acid for 20 minutes
resulted in maximum germination (avg. 81%). Mechanical scarification of the seed
coat with fine sand paper also removed dormancy and gave on an average
73% normal seedlings. Impaction and hot water treatment were not very effective
in overcoming dormancy in this species