Abstract

Aqueous extract of Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach was evaluated for phytotoxicity effect against winter wheat (Triticum durum) seed germination and seedling growth. Aqueous concentrations of 2, 4, 8 and 10% (w/v) of Sarcopoterium spinosum were used. The reduction in germination percentage was more than 40%, while the reduction in germination rate was almost 60%. The reduction in radicle length was more than 60%, while the reduction in radicle dry weight was almost 50%. The reduction in plumule length was more than 40%, while the reduction in plumule dry weight was more than 35%. The reduction of root dry weight was more than 60%, while the reduction of shoot dry weight was more than 35%. The reduction of chlorophyll content was more than 40% at the highest extract concentration compared with control. In conclusion, S. spinosum had strong phytotoxicity effect against winter wheat. Therefore, S. spinosum aqueous extract is a good candidate as a bio-herbicide against winter wheat.