Breaking dormancy in certain Acacia spp. by pre-sowing seed treatments.

Abstract

Germination was improved in A. nilotica through acid (concentrated sulfuric acid) scarification for one hour and hot water treatment for 30 minutes. K₂Cr₂O₇ at 0.6% concentration, acid scarification for 6 minutes and hot water treatment for 15 minutes improved germination in A. auriculiformis. In A. albida [Faidherbia albida] germination was improved by incubating seeds at a high temperature (50°C) for 45 days, by acid scarification for 15 minutes, and by hot water soaking for 5 minutes. Sand paper scarification gave good results in all the three species. The advantages and disadvantages of the various pretreatments are discussed.