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		Seeds and Plant Propagation. Agroforestry Technology Information Kit (IIRR, 1992, 105 p.)
			(introduction...)
			Message
			Workshop to revise the agroforestry technology information kit (ATIK)
			Workshop to revise the agroforestry technology information kit (ATIK) - November 16-21, 1992 IIRR, Silang, Cavite
			Current program thrusts in upland development
			Seeds and plant propagation: An overview
			Timing of seed collection
			Seed processing
			Seed quality testing
			Hastening seed germination
			Seed treatement for better and faster germination
			Seed storage and longevity
			Agroforestry seed storage
			Tree nursery: Establishment and management
			Vegetative propagation
			Asexual propagation methods for commonly used agroforestry species: Fruit crops
			Rooting of cuttings in homemade mist chambers

Hastening seed germination

Many agroforestry species have hard seed coats which are impermeable to water and air or which prevent the emergence of seed parts. Hardseededness tends to be promoted with delayed harvesting and prolonged drying. Hastened seed germination is essential for rapid and uniform seedling establishment and to shorten the time of exposure of seedlings to pests and other stresses. The following procedures are some pre-germination treatments which may be carried out singly or in combination to enhance germination of hardseeds.

TAP WATER TREATMENT

Soak seeds in tap water for 1248 hours (depending on species) before planting. Sow only seeds that absorb water. If a large portion does not absorb water, other treatments should be used.

BOILING WATER TREATMENT

1. Place seeds (and a stick to stir them with) in cloth bags or used socks.

2. Dip and stir seeds in boiling water (5-10 parts water to 1 part seed) for 3-15 seconds. Longer time is needed for seedlots with thicker coats or with more hardseeds. Boiling water may also be poured into a container with seeds.

Picture 12

HOT WATER TREATMENT

1. Pour hot water (boiling water allowed to cool for about 10-15 minutes) into a container with seed (10 parts water to 1 part seed).

2. Let stand for 3-10 minutes or until water cools off. Seeds may be left soaked overnight in cold or tap water.

MECHANICAL SCARIFICATION

Nick-off seedcoat with a knife or nailclipper, or rub with sandpaper, file, or any rough material, taking care not to injure the internal portion especially the radicle (rootend). This technique is practical only for small seedlots.

SCARIFICATION