Allelopathy of the Leaf Extract of Eucalyptus Genetic Material on the Physiological Performance of Millet Seeds

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the possible allelopathic effects of young and mature leaf extract from of two eucalyptus genetic materials on the physiological performance of millet seeds. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, in a 5 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement [five concentrations of the extract (0, 25 % , 50 % , 75 % , and 100%) × two genetic materials (1 - Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla and 2 - Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus camaldulensis ) × two maturation stages of leaves (young and mature leaves)] with four replicates, each one with 25 seeds. Seeding was performed on the germitest paper substrate distributed in Petri dishes, moistened with the extract according to the treatments, being allocated in biochemical oxygen demand (B.O.D) adjusted at 25°C and 12 h photoperiod. Percentage, speed index, mean germination time, aerial part and primary root length, and dry matter weight of aerial part and root system of seedlings were evaluated. The leaf extracts of the two eucalyptus clones had all the analyzed variables changed with effect more evident on young leaf extract of the genetic material 1. It can be concluded that the tested genetic materials have a detrimental effect on the physiological performance of millet seeds.