Effect of Cashew Leaves and Stem-Bark Extracts on the Germaination of Maize
O. W. Nwokeocha *
Department of Plant science and Biotechnology College of Natural Sciences, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.
B. S. Ezumah
Department of Plant science and Biotechnology Faculty of Biological and physical sciences, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
A study was carried out on Anacardium occidentale Linn. (cashew) from Uturu community of Isukwuato local government in Abia state Nigeria to determine the effect of its leaves and stem-barks extracts on the sprouting of maize seeds. The seeds were allowed to sprout having met all the necessary conditions required for sprouting. While the seeds were placed for sprouting, concentrations of the extracts were prepared and administered to the seeds while the control which is distilled water was applied on the seeds used as control of the experiment. The rate of inhibition of the extracts gotten from the leaves and stem-barks increased with the increase in the concentration of the extracts. 75% concentration showed the highest inhibitory effect followed by 50% and then 25% likewise that of the stem-bark extracts. Results from this study, revealed that the leaves and stem-bark of the cashew plant contained substances that could inhibit the sprouting of seeds like that of maize.