Allelopathic Effects of Xanthium strumarium L. Shoot Aqueous Extract on Germination, Seedling Growth and Chlorophyll Content of Lentil (Lens culinaris Medic.)

Abstract

This experiment was conducted in order to evaluate the allelopathic effects of the aqueous extract (A.E.) of Xanthium strumarium L. on the seed germination, seedling growth and chlorophyll content in lentil (Lens culinaris Medic.). Germination and seedling growth tests were performed as CRD (Completely randomized design) with 5 replications. Greenhouse experiment was carried out as RCBD (Randomized complete block design) with 4 replications. Treatments included 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% (W/V) shoot A.E. of X. strumarium L., with distilled water considered as control. Results showed that low concentrations of X. strumarium shoot A.E. had no significant effect on the germination percentage, radicle length, plumule and radicle dry weight, total chlorophyll content and chlorophylls a and b content. However, treatments with higher concentrations had negative effects on mean rate of germination, plumule length and seedling dry weight. From practical point of view the identification of weeds with potential pool of allelochemicals and characterization of their adverse effects on germination of crops during early growth stages and finally on the commercial yield is highly recommended.