Investigation on seed germination of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Oleaceae) in relation to the total phenol content

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is a seed propagated plant. The seeds exhibit a poor germination rate. Present investigation revealed that the phenolic compounds, leached out of imbibed seeds, interfered in germination. The pericarp assisted by the seed coat acted as the store of such inhibitory compounds. The best result was obtained by removing both coverings. Such effect was due to absence of the barrier and a major percentage of the phenolic inhibitors. Leaching of such interfering substances was restricted by treating seeds prior to germination with solution of antioxidants like polyvinylpyrolidone (PVP) and polyvinylpolypyrolidone (PVPP), resulting in better germination.