Comparative study on seed treatment methods on local variety of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) and rosselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)

Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench and Hibiscus sabdariffa L. are two economically important crops in developed and developing countries, Nigeria inclusive. Seed germination and growth are crucial phenological stages that are essential to the entire life of the plant. One of the most significant factors influencing agricultural output in the Southern Guinea Savanna is seedling failure. Survival and development of seeds of many plant species depend on their germination under harsh circumstances. The purpose of this study was to determine how various seed treatment techniques affected the germination of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and Abelmoschus esculentus L Moench. The study comprised two lab experiments in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications, set up as factorial treatments. To break seed dormancy were used two techniques: acid scarification and water soaking. The best results in most of the viability criteria that were tested, and the highest rate of germination for okra seeds were achieved at acid scarification for three minutes at 60% H2SO4 concentration. The findings of this study revealed that the most successful technique for increased germination of roselle was the treatment with hot water for 5 minutes at 80°C. This approach provided the highest daily germination, peak value, and germination percentage. According to the research findings, okra and roselle growers can break dormancy by soaking in 60% H2SO4 for three minutes and at 80°C for five minutes, respectively. Keywords: Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench, Hibiscus sabdariffa L., germination, seed treatment