Seed priming by cold scarification and Moringa-based bio-stimulant on the germination of Artemisia afra

Abstract

Artemisia afra is a frequently utilized medicinal plant in diverse cultural traditions for the management of various health conditions. Despite its natural habitat, limited efforts have been dedicated to its systematic cultivation, resulting in a paucity of documented information concerning its seed biology and germination characteristics. This study aimed to determine the effect of different temperatures, scarification, light conditions and priming with biostimulant on the seed germination of Artemisia afra. The seeds were exposed to different scarification methods including rubbing (sandpaper), hot and cold-water soaking, acid (H2SO4) and fermentation (EM) and compared with untreated seeds (control). Photoperiods included constant light, alternating light (16/8 hours) and continuous darkness at 15 °C, 25 °C and 35 °C. Results revealed that 25 °C temperature significantly improved germination while no germination was obtained at 15°C and 35°C. Hot and cold-water scarification resulted in improved germination. There was no germination observed for fermented seeds in all the experiments. In photoperiod, the highest germination percentage of 70 % was observed under alternating light. Using Moringa based biostimulant under alternating light conditions at 25 °C resulted in improved MGT. The information generated from this study will contribute to bridging the scientific gap by generating information on optimum requirements for propagating A. afra through seeds.