Effect of pre-treatment methods on in vitro seed germination of bullock’s heart (Annona reticulata L.)

Abstract

Background and Objective: Annona reticulata Linn. (Bullock’s Heart) is traditionally an important ethnomedicinal plant of Annonaceae. It having potential role in ayurvedic for the treatments of several diseases. Different parts of this plant have various pharmacological activities. Seed germination is a major hurdle for this plant. In this sense, this study was aimed to optimize the in vitro germination procedures. Materials and Methods: In vitro seed germination of A. reticulata was done by evaluating different pretreatments such as mechanical scarification, hot water treatment with different timings and GA3 treatment with different concentrations. Results: About 8.67 µM GA3 for 24 h pre-treatment was shown better results pertaining to the maximum percentage (60%) of germination, minimum germination period (46.67 days) and maximum length (10.5 cm) of the seedling. Conclusion: The present investigation described an enhanced in vitro seed germination protocol for the first time in this woody species. It will strengthen large scale plantation and useful in the field of pharmacology.