Effect of Seed Soaking on Seed Germination and Growth of Bitter Gourd Cultivars

Abstract

Present experiment was performed to investigate the possible role of seed soaking in improving seed germination, growth and yield along with good bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) cultivar in district Bhimber. In present experiment three bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) cultivars i.e. Faisalabad Long, Jaunpuri and Palee were used along with soaking durations (0, 4, 8, 12 and 16 hours) . Results revealed that cultivars and soaking durations have significant effect on growth and yield. Among cultivars, cultivar Palee was more effective in enhancing germination percentage (85.56%), earlier emergence (6.28), fruits plant -1 (21.09) and yield (23.94 tones). Seed soaking for 12 hours improved germination percentage (85.18%), fruits plant -1 (20.70) and yield (19.13 tones) of bitter gourd cultivars. Seed soaked for 16 hours minimized the number of days to emergence (6.28). In crux, seed soaking of cultivar Palee in water for 12 hours has the potential to improve germination, seedling growth and yield and may be recommended for best results regarding maximum germination, growth and yield under the agroclimatic condition of district Bhimber, Azad Kashmir Pakistan.