HYDROGEN PEROXIDE-MEDIATED MODULATION OF GERMINATION RATE AND SEEDLING VIGOR IN Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.

Abstract

Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.), a tropical legume rich in protein, micronutrients, and antioxidants, holds significant potential for food security and sustainable agriculture due to its nutritional value and nitrogen-fixing ability. However, its cultivation is limited by low germination rates primarily caused by hard seed coats and dormancy. This study investigated the effect of Hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) as a pretreatment agent for modulating germination rate and enhancing seedling vigour in P. tetragonolobus (variety – SLS 44). Seeds were subjected to six concentrations of H₂ O₂ (0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, and 7%), using a completely randomized design with a negative control treatment. Parameters assessed included mean germination percentage, mean lateral root count, mean root, and shoot lengths, measured at 5- and 10-days post-treatment, along with the cumulative growth rate. The results revealed that the 3% H₂ O₂ treatment was the most effective, yielding the best outcomes for both seed germination and seedling development. After 10 days, seeds treated with 3% H₂ O₂ exhibited the highest germination percentage (71.11%) and significantly enhanced root and shoot lengths (39.66±0.92 mm and 28.49±1.37 mm, respectively). Mean lateral root count (5 roots) and cumulative growth rate (7.13 mm/day) were also highest at this concentration. Statistical analysis via ANOVA confirmed significant effects of treatment day on all variables (p < 0.05), and of H₂ O₂ concentration on mean germination percentage and mean root length. These findings suggest that hydrogen peroxide acts not only as a dormancy breaking agent but also as a metabolic enhancer, likely modulating hormonal balances by increasing gibberellin and reducing abscisic acid levels. In conclusion, Hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) pretreatment at 3% concentration is a cost-effective way to break seed dormancy, boost germination, and enhance early growth in winged bean. Further studies are needed to confirm its reliability across various commercial H₂ O₂ formulations, experimental designs, and varying agro-climatic conditions.