Tree Leaf Extracts as Biostimulants for influencing Germination Attributes and Biochemical Changes in kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.)

This study was performed at the Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai-625104, India with a primary objective of evaluating the effectiveness of natural botanicals/tree leaf extracts of three horticultural tree species on germination and associated features in kodo millet and, in coordination with bioassay investigations, biochemical analysis of leaf extracts and enzyme activities in kodo millet. Response Index was computed for comparison and the reasons for the effect, if any, was investigated by GCMS-based identification of the chemicals found in the leaf extracts. The findings showed that treating the seeds with mango leaf extract boosted the seedling vigour index in kodo millet. In addition, the higher response on germination and enzyme activities such as dehdrogenase, α Amylase, catalyse and peroxidase in kodo millet were documented in Moringa oleifera leaf extract. Key words: Bioassay, Mango leaf extract, Moringa oleifera, Germination, kodo millet