Enhancing Germination and Storability in Cordia myxa Linn.: Insights from Seed Carpology, Viability, Imbibition, Pre-treatment and Storage Behaviour

Abstract

A comprehensive investigation was carried out on the seed biology, viability, and storability of Cordia myxa Linn., a valuable wild fruit species of central India. Carpological analysis revealed globular to ovoid drupes containing wrinkled, ellipsoid seeds. Tetrazolium (TZ) viability testing highlighted that staining duration, particularly 24 hours, significantly influenced viability results (p < 0.001), while TZ concentration had negligible effect. Water imbibition studies demonstrated a slow and steady hydration process, with maximum water uptake (25.35%) observed at 27 hours. Among various pre-sowing treatments tested, hot water soaking (5 min) followed by 500 ppm GA₃ for 48 hours proved most effective, achieving the highest germination (70.70%), vigour index (1043.43), and a lower mean germination time (19.12 days). Acid scarification treatments, however, adversely affected germination. Seed storability trials confirmed the orthodox nature of C. myxa seeds, with enhanced germination after desiccation (5.05% moisture) and sustained viability (35.44%) following three months at –20°C. These findings provide vital inputs for improving seed viability testing, germination efficiency, and storage strategies for the propagation and conservation of Cordia myxa, thereby contributing to its effective propagation, conservation, and future utilization in afforestation and agroforestry programs.