Comparative allelopathic effects of Eucalyptus tereticornis leaf extracts on germination and seedling growth of black turtle bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and common purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Description

The dataset records the effects of Eucalyptus tereticornis leaf extracts on black turtle bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., NABE 2) and common purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) under five concentration treatments (0–100% w/v) with three replicates. Over 14 days, germination, seedling growth, biomass, stem girth, and leaf count were measured. Analyses using ANOVA, Tukey’s HSD, and linear mixed models showed concentration‑dependent inhibition (p < 0.01). Bean germination fell from 96.7% to 40.0%, with biomass reduced by ~50%. Purslane was more sensitive, with germination dropping from 90.0% to 13.3%, height reduced by over 60%, and fresh weight cut by 65%, though dry weight was unaffected. Significant Species × Concentration interactions highlighted differential susceptibility, confirming strong allelopathic effects relevant to bioherbicide potential and eucalyptus agroforestry design.

Steps to reproduce

To reproduce the dataset, the experiment must follow a structured laboratory protocol under controlled tropical conditions. Seeds of black turtle bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., NABE 2) and common purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) are prepared, sterilised, and exposed to aqueous leaf extracts of Eucalyptus tereticornis at five concentrations (0–100% w/v). The extracts are prepared from shade‑dried, powdered leaves soaked in distilled water, filtered, and diluted to working concentrations. Germination bioassays are conducted in sterilised soil substrates placed in perforated plastic containers arranged in a completely randomised design with three replicates per treatment. Ten seeds per container are sown at uniform depth, soaked in treatment solutions, and watered on alternate days with the corresponding extract. Germination is monitored daily for 14 days, with seedlings considered germinated once the radicle protrudes 0.1 cm. Growth parameters including shoot height, stem girth, leaf count, fresh weight, and dry weight are measured at harvest on day 14. Statistical analyses are performed in R using one‑way and two‑way ANOVA, Tukey’s HSD, and linear mixed models to assess concentration effects, species differences, and temporal germination dynamics. This protocol ensures reproducibility of allelopathic inhibition data relevant to bioherbicide potential and agroforestry design.

Institutions

• Muni University

  Northern Region, Arua

Categories

Licence