Laboratory Studies on the Effects of Aqueous Extracts fromSorghum bicolorStem andZea mays(Roots and Tassel) on the Germination and Seedling Growth of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentusL.)

Abstract

The allelopathic effect of the aqueous extracts fromSorghum bicolorstem and maize (roots and tassel) were examined on the germination and seedling growth of okra (Abelmoschus esculentusL.). The results showed that the extracts inhibited the germination of okra seeds which was more pronounced in seeds treated with maize (roots and tassel) extracts as no germination was recorded until 48 hours of experimental time. Also the radicle and plumule lengths were retarded. Plumule lengths were more retarded as no germination was recorded until 72 hours of experimental time. The inhibitory effects were concentration dependent as the inhibition increases with increase in concentration of the extracts. Statistical analysis (P<0.05) revealed that there were significant differences in the germination of okra treated seeds most especially at higher concentration of the extracts when compared to control experiment. In the radicle lengths, statistical analysis revealed that there were significant differences in the radicle lengths of the extract treated seeds compared to the control experiment except at 24 hours of experimental time. Similarly in the plumule, significant differences abound in the extract treated seeds from 72 hrs to 144 hrs. These findings indicate that both germination and growth of okra sown in the field may be adversely affected by extracts from these residues, thus resulting in lowering yields especially by the maize root extracts.