Allelopathic effects of sheesham extracts on germination and seedling growth of common wheat

Abstract

Interactions between plants represent an important aspect of ecology, which enables them to properly utilize the available resources in the given environment. The interactions are mediated by different mechanisms, among which allelopathy is a significant one. During allelopathic interactions, plants tend to suppress competitors plants or stimulate those which can help them adjust in the environment in a better manner. Such interactions are triggered by the release of chemical compounds termed, as allelochemicals, which have an important role in agricultural modulation. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the allelopathic effects of leaf and bark extracts of sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo L.) on germination data of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cv. Auqab. Different concentrations (7 g/l, 14 g/l, and 21 g/l) of sundried leaf and bark extracts, obtained after 12, 24 and 36 h of soaking duration were tested for germination %, mean germination time (MGT), plumule and radicle length and seedling dry weight. It was observed that germination % was negatively affected by 21 g leaf and bark extract concentration at 36 h soaking duration, but not by lower concentration or soaking durations. MGT was significantly increased by leaf and bark extracts at three concentration levels, as well as soaking durations. Plumule and radicle length responded negatively to both leaf and bark extracts at higher concentration and when soaking duration was increased. Seedling dry weight was increased by 7 g leaf extracts at 36 h, but reduced by 21g at 12 and 24 h soaking durations. On the other hand, 21 g of bark extracts at 12, 24 and 36 h soaking duration resulted in significantly increased dry biomass. These results suggest negative allelopathy of Sheesham on studied germination parameters of wheat, except radicle length and dry biomass.