US EPA

8113444 

Journal Article 

Comparison of the germinability and protective potentials of Helianthus annuus extracts and copper sulphate solution on cajanus cajan seeds 

Akpor, OB; Obeasor, TO 

2019 

Research Trend 

10 

4 

1-9 

English 

Proper seed treatment is vital for seed quality improvement and significant increase in crop yield. The aim of this study was to evaluate the germinability improvement and protective potentials of leaf extracts of Helianthus annuus in comparison with CuSO4 on Cajanus cajan seeds. The extracts used were ethyl acetate, hexane and methanol. Prior to use, the seeds of the C. cajan were checked for viability and surface sterilized. The effective concentration that enhanced germinability of the seeds and optimum soaking time in the respective extracts and chemicals were determined. In the different experiments, surface sterilized seeds were soaked in the respective extracts and chemicals at known durations. After planting, the seeds were observed for germination and germination time, germination rate, % germination, plant height and vigor index were calculated, using standard procedures. The fungal species involved in the infectivity studies were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium sp. From the findings, optimum concentrations of 500 mg/L of the ethyl acetate and hexane extracts and 2500 mg/L of the methanol extract were observed for steeping. Optimum soaking duration of 3-4 h was recorded for steeping in the extracts and CuSO4 solution. All the extracts showed protective potential on the infected seeds and inhibited the growth of all the test fungal species, except Penicillium. Observations from this study could help in the development of viable alternatives to chemical treatments of seeds, thus enhancing sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices and management. © 2019, Research Trend. All rights reserved. 

Aspergillus; Germinability improvement; Helianthus annuus; Protective Potentials