Investigation of Seed Extraction Methods to Enhance Seed Quality and Viability in Nightshade (Solanum trilobatum L.)
Résumé
Solanum trilobatum L. (nightshade) is a medicinally important plant, yet its cultivation is limited due to challenges in seed germination and poor seed quality. This study aimed to standardize effective seed extraction methods and assess their impact on seed quality and viability. Three categories of extraction treatments such as fermentation, acid and alkali were evaluated. Among these, the acid method using commercial HCl @ 20 ml kg⁻¹ for 2 minutes (T5) resulted in the highest seed recovery (7.76%), germination (42%), root length (2.21 cm), shoot length (3.11 cm), dry matter production (2.74 mg/10 seedlings) and vigour index (224). Tetrazolium viability testing revealed that embryo excision soaked in 0.5% TZ solution for 2 hours showed the highest viability at 88%. The findings suggest that acid extraction, particularly HCl @ 20 ml kg⁻¹ for 2 minutes, is the most effective method for improving seed quality in nightshade and can aid in its large-scale cultivation and conservation.