Assessment of indigenous seed pre-treatments and GA₃ on Patala (Stereospermum suaveolens DC.) development with special reference to beejopachara

SEED TREATMENTS & GA₃ IN PATALA: BEEJOPACHARA.

Abstract

The ancient Indian science of plant life, Vrikshayurveda, recommends herbal and natural remedies to enhance plant growth and seed vitality. Ayurvedic species Stereospermum suaveolens is categorised as vulnerable. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency of gibberellic acid (GA₃) therapy with Vrikshayurveda-based seed pre-treatments in enhancing S. suaveolens germination and early seedling growth. Five treatments were applied to seeds: control (T₁), GA₃ standard (T₂), and three Vrikshayurveda-based formulations (T₃–T₅) containing cow milk, ghee, cow dung, honey and powdered herbs [Brihati (Solanum indicum), Tila (Sesamum indicum), Kamala Nala (hollow stalk of Nelumbo nucifera), Vidanga (Embelia ribes)]. A soil-sand-vermicompost-cocopeat medium (1:2:2:1) was used to sow the seeds. On the 30^th and 60^th days following sowing, growth metrics were measured. The Vrikshayurveda T₃ group, i.e., Overnight soaking with cow milk followed by fumigation of Ghrita (cow ghee) and Vidanga (Embelia ribes), produced the highest seedling weight (1.188 g) and root girth (3.58 mm), while GA₃ (T₂) displayed the greatest shoot elongation (22.69 cm at 60 days). T₄ had better root volume and length. Experimental reliability was confirmed by statistical analysis showing significant differences across treatments with low coefficients of variation. Seed treatments based on Vrikshayurveda greatly improved root morphology and seedling vigour, showing benefits that were either equal to or better than those of GA₃. These environmentally friendly compositions validate traditional Vrikshayurveda principles as sustainable options for enhancing germination and growth in medicinal tree species.