Germination Enhancement and Phytohormonal Dynamics in Sandalwood Seeds

Sandalwood ( Santalum album L.) is a species with high economic value due to its fragrant heartwood and essential oil. Its propagation, however, can be challenging due to low and sporadic seed germination. This study aimed to investigate the effects of presowing soaking in distilled water or gibberellic acid (GA 3 ; 500 ppm) either with or without cold stratification (seeds kept in moist peatmoss at 4 °C for 30 days before sowing). Data were recorded on germination percentage (G%) and germination rate index (GRI), together with phytohormonal analysis of seeds using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results revealed that GA 3 treatment significantly enhanced both G% and GRI compared with other treatments, attaining the highest G% (68.07%) and GRI (21.86) in GA 3 -treated seeds. Conversely, cold stratification reduced germination metrics and levels of promotive phytohormones. Phytohormonal analysis indicated elevated levels of GA 3 and indole-3-acetic acid in GA 3 -treated seeds, correlating with improved germination. The study emphasizes the potential of GA 3 in overcoming seed dormancy and provides a foundation for sustainable sandalwood cultivation.