Germination and Seedling Vigor of Jack Bean (Canavalia ensiformis) as Affected by Seed Size

Abstract

Seed size is one of a quantitative indicator of seed quality that influences the plant performance and is often associated with yield. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of seed size on germination and seedling vigor in jack beans. The research was carried out in Malang, Indonesia, using local jack bean cultivars from Tanggamus (Lampung, Indonesia). The study was arranged in a completely randomized design with seed size as treatment. The effect of seed size on germination percentage, seed vigor, and seedling morphology was studied. The classification for the seed size in this study was the large seed (1.81 g/seed), medium seed (1.40 g/seed), and small seed (0.95 g/seed). Small and medium seeds have the speed and simultaneity of emerging cotyledons on the fifth day. Small seeds had the highest germination percentage than medium and large seeds on the sixth day. The relationship between GP and seed vigor variables was not significant, however, GP and seed vigor features are determined by emerging cotyledon, germination, and some seedling morphological characters. The vigor parameters (MDG, PV, GV, and GI) of small seed sizes were higher than those of medium and large seed sizes. The medium seed size of jack beans produces a better seedling morphology than other seed sizes. It was concluded that although medium seeds produce a better seedling growth yet small seeds could also be used for successful jack bean production.