Effects of Various Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Jatropha curcas L.

This research was undertaken to compare various pre-germinative treatments in terms of their effects on Jatropha curcas seed germination and early growth development. Data parameters include germination index (GI), germination percentage, survival percentage, shoot and root length, seedling height, and fresh weight, number of leaves, collar diameter, and seedling vigor. ANOVA results revealed significant differences in the germination and early growth responses of Jatropha curcas at alpha = 0.05 Significant positive correlation was also observed for shoot length/ fresh weight and seedling height. Other significant positive correlations were noted for fresh weight/seedling vigor, seedling vigor/germination percentage and germination percentage/germination index. Mechanical scarification did not significantly enhance germination and seedling growth. Of the three pre-treatment chemicals tested (NaHClO 3, H_{2}*S*O_{4} and KN*O_{3} ), best results were observed for KN*O_{3} Evaluation of widely practiced pre-sowing treatments by Jatropha growers showed that soaking in 75% malunggay (Moringa oleifera) extract for 12 hours was most effective. These two pre-treatment methods are therefore recommended for breaking seed dormancy, commencing germination and stimulating vigorous seedling growth in Jatropha curcas.