Allelopathic potential of caffeine as growth and germination inhibitor to popular tea weed, Borreria hispida L.

Allelopathic compounds are considered as growth
and germination indicators. The present investi
gation elucidates the impact of caffeine as an
allelopathic substance reducing the growth and
biomass production and inhibiting the germination
of popular tea weed, Borreria hispida L. seeds. Seed
treatment of tea weed, Borreria hispida L. with
different concentrations of caffeine indicated delay
in germination start for a longer period of time. The
growth and germination of Borreria hispida L.
seeds were affected maximum at caffeine
concentrations of high dose. The seedlings of the
Borreria hispida L. had also an abnormal growth
and twisted form after exposed to caffeine. The
study also revealed negative impacts of caffeine at
its maximum dose (1000 ppm) on Borerria hispida
L. showing a reduction of plant height by 11.1 cm
against control. The study, thus, provides evidence
of allelopathic syndrome in tea eco-system. This is
the first report evaluating the caffeine allelopathy
influencing the growth and germination to popular
tea weed, Borreria hispida L.