Investigation on Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Seed Germination in Marginal Lands

There are no studies on the effects that some pre-treatment of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) seed germination has without irrigation in marginal areas. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of some pre-treatment (control, soaked with sulfuric acid for 30 minutes and sulfuric acid for 30 minutes followed by a 24 hour soak in water) and two sowing times, (November and January) on germination of seeds, germination of energy, mean germination time and seedling survival in two different land types (light and heavy rocky texture). While seeding time and land types had no effect statistically on seed germination the treatments did have. The germination rate was lowest on control with 7.78% and highest with 34.71% on 30 minutes acid treated followed by 24 h water soak. The highest germination energy was determined in pre-treated seeds on land with a light rocky texture. The shortest germination time was determined in pre-treated seeds with soil of a light rocky texture. The results showed that pre-treatment is necessary before sowing of seeds. Sowing of seeds was done after the first rains and irrigation should be applied to maintain healthy seedlings during the summer.