Effect of nutrients and smoke solutions on seed germination and seedling growth of Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum).
Date
2011
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Weed Science Society of America.
Abstract
Solanum viarum, commonly known as tropical soda apple (TSA), is native to Brazil and Argentina but has become a
harmful weed in many countries with tropical climates. This study was conducted to reassess the seed biology of TSA
found in South Africa. Cold stratification (14 d), acid scarification (20% H2SO4 for 5 min), and sandpaper scarification
(30 s) significantly improved percentage germination when compared to the control. The highest germination (99.5%) was
achieved when seeds were germinated in 50% Hoagland’s nutrient solution (HS). The lowest germination (66%) was
recorded in the absence of phosphorus (P) under alternating light conditions. HS without nitrogen (N) completely
inhibited seed germination of TSA under constant light conditions. These findings are useful in controlling TSA by
amending the levels of N and P in soils. Seed germination of TSA was significantly enhanced by different concentrations of
smoke-water and butenolide solution. Smoke-water dilution of 1:500 v/v and butenolide concentration of 10 -8M showed
the highest seedling vigor indices (6,688 and 6,666, respectively) in comparison to the control (1,251) and gibberellic acid
(GA3) concentrations (< 5,327). These findings suggest that germination of seeds or seedbanks of TSA might be
successfully stimulated using smoke solutions. Subsequently, patches of seedlings emerging after treatment can be
mechanically uprooted to reduce the infestation of TSA. However, justifying this with field trials is essential.
Description
Keywords
Solanaceae., Solanum., Weeds--Control--South Africa.
Citation
Kandari, L.S., Kulkarni, M.G., Van Staden, J. 2011. Effect of nutrients and smoke solutions on seed germination and seedling growth of Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum). Weed Science 59 (4) pp. 470-475.