SEED BIOLOGY, GERMINATION BEHAVIOUR AND NURSERY MANAGEMENT OF GARCINIA GUMMI-GUTTA (L.) N. ROBSON

Abstract

Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) N. Robson is an economically and medicinally important tree species distributed in the Western Ghats of India. The present study investigated the taxonomy, seed morphology, physiology, phytochemistry, storage behaviour, and germination characteristics of the species collected from different locations in Western Ghats. Morphological studies revealed that the species produces yellow segmented berries containing 5–9 elongated ovoid seeds with high moisture content (39.20–39.22%). Histological observations indicated a multilayered hydrophobic seed coat and lipid-rich seed tissues. Seed viability assessed through tetrazolium testing showed high viability (94.67%). Water uptake studies demonstrated gradual imbibition reaching 27.13% after 96 h.

Fresh seeds exhibited better germination than stored seeds in all sowing media. Among different sowing media, SM1 showed superior germination performance with higher germination percentage, germination rate, and germination value along with lower mean germination time. Pretreatment significantly influenced germination characteristics, and seeds with seed coat removal (T2) exhibited the highest germination percentage (93.25%) and germination value (0.426). Root trainers performed better than pots by reducing mean germination time and improving germination rate. Seed storage significantly reduced germination performance, confirming the recalcitrant nature of the seeds. Statistical analysis through two-way ANOVA revealed significant effects of sowing medium, pretreatment, container type, and storage period on germination parameters.

The study demonstrates that successful propagation of Garcinia gummi-gutta can be achieved using freshly extracted seeds, seed coat removal pretreatment, suitable sowing media, and root trainer containers. The findings provide valuable baseline information for conservation, nursery production, and sustainable utilization of this important indigenous species.