A Comprehensive Review of Terminalia arjuna Seedling Growth Dynamics in Nursery Condition

Abstract

Nurseries provide the means to control moisture, light physical and chemical soil constituents in such a way as to produce healthy and uniform seedlings for planting. Several factors can influence seedling growth in the nursery. Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & Arn., a widely recognized medicinal and ecologically significant tree species, faces propagation challenges due to seed dormancy, irregular germination, and environmental stress sensitivity. This review explores the key factors influencing the seedling growth of T. arjuna under controlled nursery conditions, focusing on soil composition, water availability, light intensity, temperature, and the impact of industrial residues such as fly ash. Evidence indicates that seedling development is highly responsive to nursery management practices, including pre-sowing seed treatments, shade regulation, watering regimes, and soil amendments. While environmental pollutants such as heavy metals pose threats to seedling health, their bioavailability can be mitigated through the responsible use of materials like fly ash, which may also enhance soil fertility. Furthermore, integrating hormonal priming and biotechnological approaches shows promise in improving germination rates and seedling vigor. This synthesis underlines the importance of optimised nursery practices for successful seedling establishment and long-term conservation of T. arjuna. Combining advanced nursery techniques with ecological restoration efforts can facilitate large-scale afforestation, supporting both environmental sustainability and the medicinal plant sector.