Gliricidia sepium is a fast-growing nitrogen-fixing legume tree native to Central and South America, widely used in agroforestry systems for shade, fodder, green manure, and erosion control
Before sowing
Soak
12 h Optional, soaking overnight in hot water improves germination for non-fresh seeds
Fresh seeds require no pre-treatment; only non-fresh seeds need hot water soaking
Sowing
Substrate
well-draining soil, sandy loam, seed-starting mix
Depth
1cm
Temperature
20°C
Moisture
media
Container
seed trays or pots
What to expect
Step 1
Pre-treat the seed
Step 2
Sow at 1cm · 20°C
Day 7–21
Seedlings emerge (~55%)
Tips
Seeds require no scarification; fresh seeds germinate without pre-treatment within 7-10 days; provide full sun; highly adaptable to various soil types including poor soils; inoculation with Rhizobium bacteria recommended when introducing to new areas
Sources: Winrock International, Plant World Seeds, ChhajedGarden.com, Neera Seeds, PACE Project, Useful Tropical Plants
