Enhancement of Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Siratro (Macroptiliumatropurpureum)

. The effect of cold water, hot water and sulfuric acid treatment on germination and seedling growth of Sirtaro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) were studied. The results of various pre-treatments showed that soaking the seeds in cold water for 24 hours had the highest germination percentage and seedling growth, followed by immersing the seeds in sulfuric acid for 4 minutes and control. The lowest germination percentage and seedling vigor were found in the seeds soaked in hot water (80o C) for 4 minutes. Thus, while the seeds of Siratro could be germinated without pre-treatment, to attain higher germination and better seedling growth, soaking the seeds in cold water at room temperature for 24 hour is recommended.