Growth Response of Bruguiera sp. Propagules to Various Plant Growth Regulators

¹ Plant Structure and Function Biology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang – 50275, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
² Ecology and Biosystematic Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang – 50275, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: eprihast@yahoo.co.id

Abstract

Mangrove forest degradation is a key factor contributing to the decline of mangrove vegetation in Indonesia. To restore their ecological function, artificial regeneration through mangrove rehabilitation is necessary. One rehabilitation strategy involves direct planting of propagules, but survival rates remain low (20–30%). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of natural and synthetic plant growth regulators (PGRs), namely coconut water, mung bean sprout extract, and Root-Up, on the growth of Bruguiera sp. propagules. The research employed a completely randomized design (CRD) with a single factor, comprising four treatments and five replications. Treatments included 100% coconut water, 100% mung bean sprout extract, 10% Root-Up, and a control. Growth parameters measured were plant height, leaf number, root length, root number, stem diameter, and fresh weight. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results showed that 100% mung bean sprout extract significantly enhanced plant height, leaf number, stem diameter, and fresh weight. Coconut water at 100% improved root length, while 10% Root-Up increased root number. These findings suggest that mung bean sprout extract is the most effective treatment for improving Bruguiera sp. seedling vigor, offering potential for enhancing mangrove rehabilitation success.