Effect of seed origin and soil type on germination and growth of heglig tree (Balanites Aegyptiaca (del.)‎ L. var. Aegyptiaca)‎

Abstract EN

Seeds from eleven provenances of Balanites aegyptiaca were grown in two soils (silt and sand) in a randomized complete block design with four replicates.

Germination was monitored for five weeks and growth parameters were evaluated at age 15 months.

The results showed that soil has strong effect on germination and growth.

Provenances exhibited high values in germination and growth under silty soil.

Patterns of Provenances growth are similar in both soils, suggesting poor genotype-environment interaction at this stage.

Ad Dinder provenance had grown fast, while Um Abdalla had grown slower.

Cluster analysis showed grouping of provenances, but are neither related to soil type, nor to rainfall.

Observed trends in provenances variation among provenances in adaptive traits, indicate genetic differences that can be utilized in conservation measures for this species.