Effect of Sowing Depths on Seedung Emergence and Growth Performance in Senna

Cassia acutifolia (Alexandrian senna) and C. angustifolia (Tinnevelly senna) are two medicinally important species because of their purgative properties. This prnperty is due to presence of seunosides, the anthraquinone derivatives in the leaves and pods. It has been found that the sowing depths of the seeds have a remarkable effect on seedling emergence and plant growth and, thus, the yield. C. angustifolia shows maximum emergence and growth when sown at 1 cm depth, while C. acutifolia at 1-2 cm depths. Seeds sown deeper show less emergence and poor growth.