Savanna Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences 6(1):70-73
Effect of Colchicine on Germination and number of fruits in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus [L.] Moench)
Babura, S.R.
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the effects of colchicine-induced polyploidy on the germination and fruit yield of okra
(Abelmoschus esculentus [L.] Moench), along with agro-morphological traits across M1, M2 and M3 generations. Two
treatment methods, seed treatment and seedling treatment, were employed. Okra seeds were subjected to colchicine
concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 0.5%, while seedlings' shoot tips were treated for varying durations of 12 to 72
hours. A complete randomized design with three replications was utilized. Results revealed a significant impact on
seed viability and production, particularly at higher concentrations. Seed germination percentage ranged from 90% to
69% in colchicine-treated plants compared to 90% in the control for M2 generation, and between 11.50% to 30.60%
in subsequent generations for seed treatment. Polyploid seedlings exhibited superior germination compared to
diploids, characterized by larger leaf area and deeper green pigmentation. Fruit yield was higher in control plants,
although seed treatment with 0.3% concentration resulted in the highest fruit number. Seed treatment method was
more efficient than shoot apical meristem treatment. Caution is advised in the use of colchicine for crop improvement.
