An experiment was conducted during 2020 at Naulauk Coconut Hybrid Seed Farm, Ranipet District, Tamil Nadu, to study the effect of presowing treatments on seed nut germination and early seedling growth of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.). Four coconut types, namely Choughat Orange Dwarf (COD), Malabar Yellow Dwarf (MYD), Tall × Dwarf, and Dwarf × Tall, were used in the study. The seed nuts were subjected to four treatments: soaking in thiourea 8000 ppm for 24 hours, soaking in thiourea 1200 ppm for 24 hours, soaking in micronutrient mixture, and soaking in biofertilizer (Azospirillum). After treatment, nuts were air-cured for 45 days and sown in nursery beds. Germination and growth parameters such as days to germination, seedling height, stem diameter, and number of opened leaves were recorded. Results showed that presowing treatments influenced germination and seedling growth. MN mixture improved germination in Choughat Orange Dwarf, while biofertilizer treatment enhanced germination and growth in Malabar Yellow Dwarf and hybrid types. Overall, soaking in Azospirillum biofertilizer was found most effective in promoting faster germination and better seedling performance, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments.

Published: 2026-03-01 | DOI: N/A