Effect of Panchagavya and GA3 on Germination and Seedling Growth in Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.)

Abstract

An experiment consisting of three sowing periods (March-May, June-August and September-November) and seven pre-sowing treatments was undertaken to study the effect of these factors on seed germination and initial seedling growth in cashew. Seeds sowing during June - August gave significantly better germination and initial seedling growth. However, maximum germination percentage, maximal seedling growth and minimum days to germination were observed with GA₃ 200ppm during all three sowing periods compared to that in other treatments. As for panchagavya, @ 10% and 20%, was found to be beneficial in treated seeds. All the growth parameters studied were also superior with GA₃ application,excepting root growth. Best root growth was recorded with panchagavya at 20%.