Germination behaviour of seeds of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: a high value medicinal plant

In order to evolve a quick method for smooth and optimum germination for Withania somnifera- a medicinally efficacious multipurpose plant, present investigation was carried to study the effect of physico-chemical treatments, storage, temperature, photoperiod and growth regulators (GA(3), IAA, IBA, 2-4 D and BA) on germinability. The most effective treatment is GA(3) at 150 mu g/ml concentration at 25 A degrees C. The optimal temperature for germination is 25 A degrees C and continuous light favored germination showing that photoperiod has a significant role. The seedlings derived from seeds performed well when grown in a glasshouse. The data have implications for conservation and cultivation of the species studied.