Ageratum houstonianum is a garden escape that has become an invasive weed affecting ecosystems in many countries in different parts of the world. The study evaluated the allelopathic potential of the aqueous extract and leachate of A. houstonianum on the seed germination and seedling growth of two important agricultural crops Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) and Zea mays (maize) under laboratory conditions. Seed germination, root and plumule lengths were measured. Results showed significant reduction of germination and seedling development in both okra and maize plants exposed to A. houstonianum treatments. The impact was more on okra as compared to maize.
Download