Acid scarification and hot water soaking of Racosperma auriculiforme seeds.

Abstract

Nine methods were investigated for overcoming seed-coat dormancy of Racosperma auriculiforme (Acacia auriculiformis, provenance KZNO) from Zaire. Soaking seeds in concentrated sulfuric acid for 15 or 30 min and then rinsing for 15 min with tap water produced the best (germination) results in laboratory testing as well as for operational application. Boiling water from which the heat source has been removed and in which the seeds are placed and soaked until the water is cool (12-24 h) is the most suitable and economical method for social forestry programmes at the village level in Zaire.