Effect of Chloride and Sulphate Salinity on Germination and Seedling Development of Two Tropical Leguminous Tree Species

Abstract

Germination and seedling development of two tropical leguminous tree species viz., Albizia lebbek (Linn.) Benth and Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit. Were assessed in chloride as well as sulphate dominated salt solutions of 4,8,12 and 16 dSm^-1 conductivity levels after breaking the seed coat dormancy with hot water. Both types of salinity adversely affected the seed germination of the two species. Chloride salinity, however, was more detrimental as the percent germination and speed of germination (Maguire Index) declined to greater extent than by sulphate salinity. Seedling growth and vigour index of both the species were also more adversely influenced by chloride salinity.A. lebbek in spite of being more sensitive to both types of salinity showed better seedling length and vigour index than L. leucocephala due to bigger seed size and more food storage in seeds.