Studies on Seed Germination of Some African Acacias

Acacia is very important multipurpose genus. Although sexual reproduction in Acacia is the only natural cheapest method for propagation, its seed used to be very dormant and not germinate easily even under favorable conditions, hence the problem of their propagation has to be considered in scientific research. Acacias have a great economic importance and can be utilized in several ways. Acacias can provide lumber, fuel wood, tannin; and many other products. They are also important to pastures and agricultural crops as they can fix atmospheric nitrogen in their root nodules. Their leaves, young fruits and seeds are very nutritive and eaten by livestock. In addition, Acacias are keystone species as they improve soil conditions under their canopies. Plant species diversity and occurrence beneath the tree canopies is higher than in the surrounding areas. So, the objectives of this study were to assess the effect of pre-sowing treatments, seed coat anatomy, growth promoters and inhibitors on seed germination of some African Acacias.