VEGETATIVE ASSESSMENT OF SOME SELECTED ACCESSIONS OF Albizia lebbeck SEEDLINGS

Abstract

Albizia lebbeckis a multipurpose, fast-growing tree species widely grown in the tropical region, belonging to the family of Leguminosae with several economic opportunities, from timber production and livestock fodder to agroforestry and traditional medicine. This study investigated the vegetative(shoot and root traits) of Albizia lebbeck accessions seedling originating from diverse locations within the Zaria region. The experiment consisted of 20 accessions arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design replicated three times. Each replication contained 20 pots, with five seeds per pot. The soil used comprised a mixture of field and sandy soil supplemented with N.P.K (20:10:10) fertilizer at 20g per pot to enhance the nutrients level of the soil for growth and development. Data was collected on shoot height, number of branches, primary root length, number of lateral root branches, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, and total biomass weight.A wide range of traits values were observed within all measured parameters. Positive correlations were found between several traits, such as shoot height and biomass, root and shoot traits, and lateral root branches with other traits. The results highlighted only significance difference of genetic diversity in plant height among Albizia lebbeck accessions, indicating varying adaptation.Although other traits did not show significant variation, the substantial variation within these traits suggests the presence of natural diversity within the population. This diversity can be harnessed for various applications, such as in forestry and horticulture. Further research is required to assess genetic diversity using a larger number of accessions from diverse provenances.