EFFECT OF PRE-GERMINATION TREATMENT ON GERMINATION OF LOCUST BEANS (PARKIA BIGLOBOSA)

ABSTRACT The locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa) is an economically important indigenous species in West Africa, valued for its edible seeds and other multipurpose benefits. However, its cultivation is hindered by poor seed germination due to hard, impermeable seed coats. This study investigated the effects of various pregermination treatments on enhancing the germination of P. biglobosa seeds. Experiments were conducted at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, using seeds collected from mature trees on campus. Four pre-germination treatments were evaluated: mechanical abrasion, cold water soaking, hot water soaking, and sulfuric acid treatment. Seed viability tests confirmed 94-96% viability of the collected seeds. All treatments significantly improved germination parameters compared to untreated controls. Sulfuric acid scarification for 60 minutes proved most effective, achieving 89% germination,28.3days mean germination time, and a germination rate index of 10.72. Hot water soaking at 70°C for 30 minutes was the next most effective method. Mechanical abrasion for 2 minutes and cold water soaking for 72 hours also showed improvements, though less it's rapid seedlings growth. Higher temperatures and extended treatment durations tended to reduce germination, likely due to embryo damage. The study provides valuable insights for developing practical pre-germination protocols to enhance P. biglobosa seedling production and cultivation. Recommendations include using sulfuric acid treatment for large-scale production, hot water soaking as an accessible alternative, and further research on combining treatments and assessing long-term effects on seedling vigor and field performance.