Seed pretreatments enhance germination in Occimum gratissimum (lameaceae)

Occimum gratissimum (fever plant) is a crop with a wide range of use as a medicinal plant and as a spice. In spite of its huge economic importance, the plant is only grown in homestead. The study investigated the effects of light, temperature and water treatments on the germination of the seeds. The incubation of seeds at 25 degrees C under light condition, coupled with leaching in running water for 12 hours was found to release the dormancy in the seeds of Occimum gratissimum. [Life Science Journal. 2008; 5(1): 87 - 89] (ISSN: 1097 - 8135).