Investigations into the impact of various pre-sowing treatments on the germination of seeds and root growth parameters of Jamun (Syzygium cuminii L.) in Raipur

The present investigation was carried out during 2024-25 at the Precision Farming Development Centre, Department of Fruit Science, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.), to evaluate the effects of various pre-sowing treatments on the seed germination and root growth performance of Jamun (Syzygium cuminii L.). A total of 13 treatments, including control, water soaking durations, gibberellic acid (GA₃) at 150 ppm and 200 ppm, thiourea, potassium nitrate (KNO₃), cow urine, and Panchagavya at varying concentrations, were applied using a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Among all treatments, GA₃ at 200 ppm (T4) demonstrated the most significant enhancement in germination parameters. It resulted in the earliest initiation of germination (8.10 days), shortest time to achieve 50% germination (13.10 days), the highest germination percentage (93.00%), and maximum survival rate (86.96%). This treatment also yielded the longest tap root (35.42 cm), highest fresh root weight (2.33 g), and maximum root dry weight (0.54 g), signifying improved seedling vigor. The positive effect is attributed to GA₃'s role in promoting the production of hydrolytic enzymes, mobilising food reserves, and enhancing cellular expansion and nutrient translocation. Economically, the GA₃ 150 ppm treatment (T3) yielded the highest benefit: cost (B:C) ratio (3.96), closely followed by GA₃ 200 ppm (3.88). Organic treatments like 20% cow urine (T10) also showed notable improvement across parameters, although they remained less effective than GA₃ treatments. The study concludes that seed treatment with GA₃ at 200 ppm significantly improves the germination rate, root development, and economic viability of Jamun seedlings under shade net conditions. These findings underscore the potential of pre-sowing chemical treatments in enhancing propagation efficiency and establishing healthy rootstock for successful orchard establishment.