Effect Of Aqueous Leaf, Stem And Root Extracts Of Mimosa Invisa (Jacq) On Germination And Seedling Growth Of Maize (Zea Mays Linneaus,) And Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata,) (L) WaLp.

ABSTRACT

The effect of aqueous extracts of leaf, stern and root of Mimosa invisa (Jacq) on the germination and seedling growth of maize (zea mays) and cowpea. (V/gna unguicu/ala) was investigated. The concentrated extracts and its dilutions 1: 1, 1 :2.5 v/v were prepared from the undiluted extracts and distilled water served as control. Although the extracts inhibited the germination of maize, ide effect was not significant. The reduction in percentage germination increased with increase in concentration of extracts in both plant species tested. There was an increase (P0.05) in plant height and dry weight of the plant compared with the control, the increase was not significant. This indicates that seeding growth of maize and cowpea was negatively affected by the aqueous extracts. Low concentration of the extracts lead to decreased plant height and dry matter weight of the plants. Furdier studies to compare the bioactivity of Mimosa invi.sa is recommended.