ALLELOPATHIC POTENTIAL OF Euphorbia dracunculoides ROOT AQUEOUS EXTRACT ON SEED GERMINATION AND EARLY SEEDLING GROWTH OF CHICKPEA

The present investigation was carried out to determine allelopathic potential of Euphorbia dracunculoides aqueous root extract (EARE) on seed germination and early seedling growth of Chickpea. The dry root powder was extracted in autoclaved distilled water to make 12.5%, 6.25%, 3.125%, 1.56% and 0.78% extracts. The EARE was a good source of natural phenolics and was applied as seed soaking to Chickpea seeds prior to sowing in pots. The EARE did not significantly affect seed germination indices such as seed germination (%), germination index (GI) and germination rate index (GRI) of Chickpea. The EARE at 12.5% concentration significantly increased (p 0.05) shoot fresh weight, root area, root length, chlorophyll a, total soluble phenolics content of root and shoot of chickpea. The carotenoids content was higher at 3.25% EARE. It is inferred from findings of the present investigation that EARE exhibited stimulatory effects on growth of Chickpea at early seedling stage. Further investigation of the plant may lead to the formulation of some novel compounds, applicable as plant growth regulators.