Effect of Light Conditions on Root, Shoot and Plant Length of Selected Forest Tree Species

Abstract

The present study was undertaken in order to investigate the effect of different light conditions on germination and seedling growth of some selected forest tree species viz. Bridelia retusa (Spreng.) H. antidysenterica (Wall), L. parviflora (Roxb.) and W. tinctoria (R.Br.). Seeds were sown in earthen pots filled with a mixture of garden soil, sand and decomposed manure in 2:1:1 ratio. After sowing of seeds, three light conditions viz. semi-shady, shady and full sunlight were considered for the experiment and observation were made at definite intervals. The above studies showed that root length was maximum under semi shady condition in B. retusa and H. antidysenterica while in L. parviflora and W. tinctoria it was maximum in full sunlight. Root/shoot ratio was highest under shady condition in H. antidysenterica, L. parviflora and W. tinctoria respectively. The growth of seedlings of B. retusa and H. antidysenterica was better in semi shady condition and in L. parviflora and W. tinctoria was higher in full sunlight conditions.