Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Effect of plant growth regulators on seed germination of mechanically scarified seeds of Himalayan wild Cherry (Prunus cerasoides d. Don)
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Research Articles | Published: 17 February, 2026
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Keywords: Gibberellic acid, Indole butyric acid, Leaf nutrient, Seed germination, Seedling growth
Abstract
Limited information is available on the fruit and seed maturity of Himalayan wild cherry (Prunus cerasoides), and methods to enhance seed germination and early seedling growth have not been sufficiently explored. This knowledge gap hinders effective propagation for rootstock development in sweet cherry cultivation. This study investigates the effects of phytohormones gibberellic acid (GA3) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) on the germination and early growth of mechanically scarified P. cerasoides seeds at Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry (UUHF), India. Seven treatments were assessed: control GA3@ at 100, 150, and 200 ppm and IBA at 100, 150, and 200 ppm using a completely randomized design with three replications. Results showed that seeds treated with GA@ at 150 ppm had the fastest germination (10.73 days) and the highest germination percentage (75.33%). Moreover, GA@ at 150 ppm significantly improved leaf nitrogen concentration (1.90%), carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (22.10%), phosphorus (1.23%), and potassium (1.10%) compared to the control, indicating better seedling vigor and nutrient assimilation. In conclusion, GA@ at 150 ppm effectively enhances the germination rate, early growth, and leaf nutrient status of P. cerasoides. This suggests the potential for plant growth regulators in developing propagation protocols for wild cherry, ensuring a reliable supply of quality rootstocks for sweet cherry production. Further research should focus on the long-term performance of GA3-treated seedlings and the physiological mechanisms involved in seed dormancy and nutrient utilization.
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Author Information
Department in Agriculture, Mata Gujri College, Fatehgarh Sahib, India