Assessment on the Effects of Potting Media on Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of <i>Pterocarpus erinaceus</i> Poir

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of potting media on seed germination and early seedling growth of Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir at the Forestry Nursery in Jos, Nigeria. Using Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replicates, laboratory-tested soil samples, top soil, sharp sand, sharp sand + top soil, sharp sand + top soil + cow dung and sharp sand + top soil + poultry droppings were used in various combinations to assess the growth parameters of P. erinaceus (germination percentage, emergence, plant height, number of leaves, length of leaves and stem diameter) for 12 weeks. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze collected data. Result indicated that sharp sand + top soil + poultry droppings had the highest nitrogen concentration (2.19%), sharp sand + top soil + cow dung (2.07%), sharp sand + top soil (1.50%), top soil (0.72%) and Sharp sand (0.38%). Potting media with poultry droppings recorded an overall higher percentage germination of 42.9% by the end of the germination period. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) of collected data on combined soil aggregate on growth parameters indicated a significant (p<0.05) difference in plant height, number of leaves, leaf length and stem diameter. Potting with poultry dropping gave the best potting media growth results when compared to other treatments that enhanced seed germination and seedling growth of P. erinaceus. This superior observation of the poultry droppings incorporated potting mixtures over the cow dung provides an outstanding potentials to enhance P. erinaceus plantation establishment. Consequently, recommended for raising seedlings in the nursery as well as ensuring sustainable management.