Optimizing Dormancy-Breaking Methods for Propagation of Four Ecologically and Economically Important Fabaceae Species

Seed dormancy is a critical issue affecting growth and germination among various species of Fabaceae that hold ecological and socioeconomic significance. The objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of four dormancy-breaking chemicals, hot water, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and coconut water, at four concentration rates (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) on Tamarindus indica, Vachellia nilotica, Parkia biglobosa, and Bauhinia reticulatum. Seeds of the selected species were subjected to dormancy-breaking treatments using the aforementioned chemicals at the specified concentrations. Germination rates, seedling height, and leaf production were measured as key indicators of treatment effectiveness. All experiments were conducted under controlled environmental conditions to ensure consistency. The results showed species- specific responses to the treatments. T. indica, B. reticulatum, and V. nilotica exhibited the highest germination rates at 50% hydrochloric acid treatments, and P. biglobosa reached its peak germination success at a 75% sulfuric acid concentration. In contrast, no growth was observed in the control groups. Coconut water and hot water produced more moderate but consistent improvements, with V. nilotica showing the lowest germination success at 50% coconut water. This study provides one of the first systematic comparisons of chemical and natural dormancy-breaking methods of four Fabaceae species. The findings highlighted the potential of hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid treatments for efficient dormancy breaking in the studied species, offering valuable insights for propagation, reforestation, and seed conservation efforts in Fabaceae. Cite this article as: Tukur, K., Entalai, E., B., Nulit, R., Sani, S., K., Saba, A. O., & Go, R. (2026). Optimizing dormancybreaking methods for propagation of four ecologically and economically important Fabaceae species. Forestist, 76, 0160, doi: 10.5152/ forestist.2026.25160.