Germination Test of Shea Seeds (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F. Gaertn) in Nursery on Substrates of Northern Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Aims: The present study aims to evaluate the effect of some abiotic factors on the quality of seed germination of shea tree, a plant of great economic interest for the rural populations in Northern Côte d'Ivoire.
 Study Design: The trials were conducted in a nursery where two factors were considered. These were the substrate, with six modalities and shelter with two modalities. Six small pits, each of size 60 x 60 cm, surface 3600 cm2 and 15 cm of depth were dug and then filled with different substrates.
 Place and Duration of Study: The work was carried out in 2018 in the district of Korhogo in Northern Côte d'Ivoire.
 Methodology: Each treatment received 36 seeds of shea tree giving a total of 216 seeds per test. The seeds used were all dark brown, ellipsoid in shape with masses ranging from 10 to 11 g. The experiment was carried out with a total of 12 treatments, six under a greenhouse hermetically covered with transparent polyethylene plastic and six under a shade made up of a rack covered with maximum Panicum leaves. 
 Results: The first germination was observed at the level of the organic manure treatment at 6 months of degradation installed under the greenhouse (ManB_G = 28 days). The lowest final germination rate was obtained with the organic fertilization at 3 months of degradation installed under the shade (FGP ManA_S = 2.95%) while the highest was observed in the sawdust installed under the greenhouse (FGP S_G = 64.18%).
 Conclusion: It is concluded that for each substrate, soil or biowaste, the seeds of shea tree have a better ability to germinate under a greenhouse than under a shelter covered with straw.

The Current State of Knowledge of Shea Butter Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F.Gaertner.) for Nutritional Value and Tree Improvement in West and Central Africa

“…To obtain a successful germination rate, the seeds must be in good health. Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity also need to be considered because they contribute to the activation of the hormones and enzymes required for germination purposes [155]. Shoots and roots developed through bipolar embryos were acclimated during in vitro culture in a greenhouse.…”