Seed maturity indices in indian bean tree (Catalpa bignonioides Walt.) under temperate conditions of Kashmir Himalayas Mir Rafiq A., Bhat G.M.*, Rafeeq Jauhar, Wagay Oyais Ahmad Division of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Benhama, Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir, (India) *e-mail: bhatm67@gmail.com
Online published on 2 April, 2024. Abstract Seed maturity indices play a crucial role in determining the optimal time for seed collection and subsequent propagation, thus ensuring successful reproduction and conservation efforts. This study aimed to investigate the maturity indices of Indian Bean Tree (Catalpa bignonioides Walt.) under temperate conditions of Kashmir. Collected seeds were assessed for germination percentage, specific gravity, seed weight, and changes in fruit/seed color at 15-day intervals. The results revealed that seeds reached maturity by mid-November, indicated by a change in seed color from green to silver grey. Seeds collected during this period demonstrated the highest specific gravity (0.24), seed weight per 100 seeds (2.32 g), and moisture content (9.69%). Furthermore, seeds collected in mid-November exhibited the maximum germination percentage of 89.40%. Catalpa bignonioides seeds are fully mature by mid-November. Therefore, for successful nursery raising of this species, it is recommended to collect seeds during mid-November. These results provide valuable information to foresters and conservationists regarding the optimal time for seed collection and subsequent propagation, contributing to the effective management and conservation of Catalpa bignonioides populations. Top Keywords Catalpa bignonioides, Kashmir, Maturity indices, Nursery raising, Seed germination. Top |