Implications of different dormancy-breaking treatments to enhance the germination of Turkey berry (Solanum torvum Swartz)

Solanum torvum, known as turkey berry, holds significant potential in introgression breeding, grafting technology, pharmaceuticals, and nanotechnology. However, the dormancy issue in Solanum torvum seeds must be addressed to utilize its potential fully. Various dormancy-breaking treatments, such as hot water soaking, scarification, stratification, and chemical and hormonal treatments, were applied at different concentrations and durations to enhance seed germination. Among the treatments, gibberellic acid at 1500 ppm for 24 hours showed the highest germination rate of 99 %. It also improved other seedling quality parameters, including root length (1.9 cm), shoot length (3.8 cm), dry matter production (3.9 g), vigour index I (574), vigour index II (386), and speed of germination (8.7). The findings from this study provide valuable insights into improving the germination of Solanum torvum seeds, which are crucial for their seed production and effective use in agriculture.