Dalbergia sissoo, known as North Indian rosewood or shisham, is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing deciduous tree native to the Himalayan foothills of India, Pakistan, and Iran. Seeds have no dormancy and germinate readily within 1-3 weeks when fresh. This legume species is highly valued for its durable timber and ecological benefits, making it important for agroforestry and land restoration projects.
Before sowing
Water soaking is recommended. Rhizobium inoculation recommended after soaking and before sowing to enhance nitrogen fixation. Fresh seeds require no pre-treatment. Stored seeds benefit from soaking to accelerate germination.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Maintain soil moisture consistently but avoid waterlogging. Keep temperature warm (75-85°F or 24-29°C) to encourage germination. Shade seedlings during hottest hours of the day during germination period. Once germinated, seedlings are intolerant of shade and require partial to full sun. After germination, transfer to individual containers with care to avoid damaging the long taproot. Acclimate seedlings for 2-8 weeks before field transplantation. Seedlings develop fast with strong taproots; root-prune containers monthly to prevent rooting into nursery floor. Inoculate with Rhizobium bacteria before or after sowing for enhanced nitrogen fixation. Transplant during cool parts of day (early morning or late afternoon) and keep under nursery shade for 7-10 days. Seedlings ready for field planting when 20 cm tall. Regular weeding necessary for several years after establishment.
Sources: Wikipedia, PlantFlowerSeeds.com, PROTA (Useful Tropical Plants Database), Agroforestree Database, FAO, Tropical Plants Database, University of Florida IFAS, Hooga Seed Keepers, EarthOne, CABI Compendium
