Assessment of Seed Physiological Parameters in Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. for Optimizing Propagation and Storage Strategies

Abstract

This study investigated seed viability, water imbibition behavior, and desiccation tolerance of Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. to evaluate its potential for propagation and long-term storage. Tetrazolium (TZ) staining tests at varying concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%) and durations (1 to 24 hours) revealed that 0.5% TZ consistently yielded 100% viability across all durations, making it the most effective treatment. Statistical analysis confirmed that TZ concentration, staining duration, and their interaction significantly influenced viability outcomes (p < 0.001). The seeds exhibited a clear triphasic water imbibition pattern, with fresh weight increasing by 158.79% at 30 hours before plateauing, indicative of typical orthodox seed hydration. Germination trials demonstrated that no pre-treatment was necessary, as seeds showed high viability without signs of physical or physiological dormancy. Desiccation trials, followed by storage at –20 °C, further confirmed the orthodox nature of the seeds. Germination improved from 89.26% in fresh seeds to 90.83% after desiccation and 95.38% after three months of cold storage. These results establish G. sylvestre seeds as viable, desiccation-tolerant, and suitable for direct sowing and long-term conservation under low-temperature storage conditions.