By: Onyekwelu J. C.; OLABIWONNU A. A.;
Abstract:
Currently, much attention is being focused to identifying suitable tree species that can provide large biomass that can be used for bioenergy. Short rotation tree species have been recognized as one of the main bioenergy resources. Seed germination and early growth potentials of Moringa oleifera seedlings were investigated under five potting media. Germination was monitored for 35 days while early growth characteristics were monitored for 16 weeks. Germination commenced on the 6th day after sowing and was completed between 11th and 12th day, indicating a uniform and quick germination of the seeds. Germination percentage varied between 58 and 76%. The effect of potting media on germination was significant, with seeds sown in river sand giving a significantly lower germination than those sown in other media. At the end of the 16th week of growth, average number of leaves produced varied between 793 and 1657 (maximum: 4000). This high number of leaves, which implies large photosynthetic area for Moringa seedlings were probably responsible for rapid total height and diameter growth of the seedlings. Mean total height ranged from 72 and 100.9 cm (maximum: 145 cm) while mean collar diameter varied from 0.67 to 0.89 cm (maximum: 1.49 cm) during the four months growth period. The effects of potting media on total height, collar diameter and number of leaves were not statistically significant indicating the ability of Moringa seedlings to grow in a wide range of site conditions
Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Germination, Early growth, Potting mixture, Bioenergy
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