Allelopathic Effect of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Melia dubia on Seed Germination and Growth of Zea mays

Abstract

Melia dubia is a multipurpose tree species and its wood is used for various purposes like pulpwood, plywood, packing cases, ceiling planks, agricultural implements, fuel wood etc. It is also planted in agroforestry systems; hence, it is imperative to assess its allelopathic effect on growth of understorey crops. Therefore, in present study, allelopathic effect of different concentrations (0, 1, 2,3,4,5 and 6%) of aqueous leaf extract of M. dubia on seed germination and seedling growth of Zea mays (maize) was assessed. The results indicated that 1 and 2%of aqueous leaf extract of M. dubia had no allelopathic effect on seed germination, as 100% germination was recorded at these concentrations. But, at higher concentrations, germination decreased and minimum germination (86%) was recorded at 5 and 6% concentrations of the extract. All the concentrations of leaf extract had negative allelopathic effect on growth parameters of maize, barring few exceptions. The study revealed that maximum inhibitory effect on germination, growth parameters and vigour index of maize was indicated by 5 and 6% aqueous leaf extract.