Comparison between traditional and conventional methods of seed storage and pretreatment in Embelia ribes - A threatened medicinal plant

Abstract

Good seed storage practices ensure maximum seed viability and suitable pretreatment of seeds resulting in maximum germination percentage. The importance of using appropriate seed storage and pretreatment techniques has been well recognized since ancient times. This is evidenced by the detailed procedures that have been described in the traditional texts, both to retain viability as well as to improve germination. The raw materials used for these processes are natural and 100% organic. Conventional methods for the two processes, on the other hand, make use of inorganic chemicals, which can be harmful to both the environment and humans. A study was conducted to compare the effect of conventional practices and selected traditional methods of seed storage and pretreatment with respect to Embelia ribes. Seeds of the selected species were collected and subjected to monthly germination trials. Data was analysed with respect to best treatment combination and time of germination using the statistical tool ANOVA. From the observations it was concluded that with respect to storage the traditional method was on par with the conventional method; whereas with respect to pretreatment, the conventional method was better than the traditional method. The results also showed that germination of E. ribes was restricted to seeds sown between September and December.