Studies on Seed Size and Storage on Germinability and Performance of young Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis L.) Seedlings in Semi-arid Areas of Kenya
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Date
2015
Authors
Inoti, S.K.
Chamshama, S.A.O.
Dodson, R.
Thagana, W.M.
Lulandala, L.L.L.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
IISTE
Abstract
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinesis L.) is a highly valued desert shrub for its oil which is equivalent to that of Sperm
Whale, a threatened species by extinction. Cultivation of Jojoba in arid areas means provision of a cash-crop,
environmental conservation and preservation of the Whale. Its seeds vary in size depending on genotype, season
and seed lot. An experiment was setup in September 2012 with an objective of characterizing seed and
determining the effect of size and storage on germination. The experiment was laid down in a Completely
Randomized Design (CRD) with three treatments replicated thrice for the first two experiments. However, the
third experiment was a factorial one with eight treatments. The seeds were grouped into three categories which
were large (1,047 mg), medium (697 mg) and small (333 mg/seed). The results revealed that large seeds had
significantly (P< 0.05) higher germination percentage (76%) compared with medium (33%) and small (37%)
seeds. Large seeds were found to contain large cotyledon size. Large cotyledons provide a large food reserve
which is essential for germination and early vigorous growth. Seed length and 100 seed weight were
significantly (P≤0.05) higher for large seed as compared to medium and small seeds. Similarly, large seeds
recorded a germination of 93% for a short storage of six months which was superior to that of small seeds
which was 17% for the same period. Hence seed length and 100 seed weight were found to be reliable variables
for characterizing Jojoba seeds which may be used in predicting germinability. We recommended that for
enhanced germination and vigorous growth of seedlings, it is necessary to select and plant large Jojoba seeds
which have been stored for period less than one year.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Jojoba, Seed, Characterization, Germination, Growth
Citation
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare Vol.5, No.12, 2015