Studies on seed germination and seedling growth of Uapaca kirkiana derived from different propagules have been limited. The objectives were to assess variations in fruit and seed weight, germination ability of seed from grafts, marcots and natural forest stand. It was also to assess the effects of fruit and seed size, and collection time on seed germination. Trees from natural forest stand were significantly (P < 0.0001) taller and had thicker stem diameters at breast height than the rest. Fruit diameters, seed germination, seedling height, root collar diameter, leaf number and seedling survival significantly (P < 0.0001) varied with propagule type. Significantly (P = 0.0275) large seed was obtained from asexual propagules (grafts and marcots) in November, while in December large seed was from natural forest stand. Germination of seed derived from grafts was rapid and consistent. Seedlings derived from asexual propagules were superior in height, survival and root and leaf number. It can be concluded that seed size is independent on propagule type and that large (heavy) seed is superior in germination and seedling growth. Grafts and marcots are alternative viable seed sources for raising seedlings.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00468-014-1142-7Pontuação Altmetric:
Dimensões Contagem de citações:
Ano de publicação
2015
Autores
Idioma
English
Palavras-chave
seed germination, trees, asexual propagules, seedlings, seedling growth, deforestation
