Priming with Moringa Leaf Extract Enhances the Germination and Early Growth of Peas ( Pisum sativum )

Abstract

Peas (Pisum sativum) are an important legume crop known for their high nutritional value and role in crop rotation systems. Despite their numerous benefits, pea seed germination and early seedling growth can be influenced by various environmental factors, often leading to reduced crop yield. To address this, seed priming has emerged as a technique to improve germination and seedling vigor. This study, conducted in 2024, aimed to evaluate the impact of priming with various concentrations of Moringa Leaf Extract (MLE) on germination and seedling characteristics of peas.The experiment was performed following a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with three replications. The treatments included a control (no priming) and six different concentrations of MLE (1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 9%). Key parameters assessed included germination percentage, germination index, seedling vigor index, seedling height, root length, biomass of roots and shoots, and chlorophyll content. The results indicated that priming with 3% MLE significantly enhanced the germination rate (100%) and seedling vigor index (1513.3), outperforming all other treatments. The 3% MLE treatment also maximized seedling height (15.133 cm) and root length (6.5 cm). Furthermore, this treatment yielded the highest biomass for both roots (0.8667 g) and shoots (1.3233 g), as well as the highest chlorophyll content (64.867). At 35 days after sowing, the 7% MLE treatment produced the highest number of leaves, branches, and root length, while the 5% MLE treatment resulted in the highest shoot biomass. Overall, the study suggests that priming with MLE can be an effective technique for improving germination, growth, and biomass production in pea seeds, with the optimal concentration varying depending on the specific growth parameter being measured.