Abstract

Casuraina equisetifolia is an important plantation tree which is propagated through seed. Seeds loose their initial viability of 40-50% rapidly and reach 5% at the end of one year. Keeping these in view, an attempt was made to develop a technology to slow down the speed of seed deterioration using chemicals and botanicals viz., neem (Azadirachta indica), turmeric (Curcuma longa), acorus (Acorus calamus), arappu (Albizzia amara), acetyl salicylic acid and halogenation. Evaluations were made at bimonthly intervals on physiological potential and enzyme activity of seeds viz., amylase, catalase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. The results indicated that neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf powder and acetyl salicilic acid is capable of sustaining the activity of the enzymes during the storage period which can inturn maintain the seed germination potential and seedling vigour as well.

Keywords: Casuarina equisetifolia, pre-storage treatments, enzyme activity, germination