Induction of stress tolerance in fingermillet by Chromolaena odorata

The extracts of Chromolaena odorata inhibited the growth of fingermillet. But presoaking of fingermillet seeds in these extracts promoted the crop growth. The plants were sturdier and bigger with broader leaves. These leaves had more number of vascular bundles and bundle sheath cells. The treatment with extracts induced the formation of more primary and secondary metabolites. The amount of chloroplast pigments was also increased. The stress index value of treated seedlings and the chlorophyll stability index of 60 days old plants were in favour of induction of stress tolerance by extracts of Chromolaena odorata. © International Allelopathy Foundation 2005.