Allelopathic potential of caffeine as growth and germination inhibitor to popular tea weed, Borreria hispida L.

Allelopathic compounds are considered as growth and germination indicators. The present investigation elucidates the impact of caffeine as an allelopathic substance reducing the growth and biomass production and inhibiting the germination of popular tea weed, Borreria hispida L. seeds. Seed treatment of tea weed, Borreria hispida L. with different concentrations of caffeine indicated delay in germination start for a longer period of time. The growth and germination of Borreria hispida L. seeds were affected maximum at caffeine concentrations of high dose. The seedlings of the Borreria hispida L. had also an abnormal growth and twisted form after exposed to caffeine. The study also revealed negative impacts of caffeine at its maximum dose (1000 ppm) on Borerria hispida L. showing a reduction of plant height by 11.1 cm against control. The study, thus, provides evidence of allelopathic syndrome in tea eco-system. This is the first report evaluating the caffeine allelopathy influencing the growth and germination to popular tea weed, Borreria hispida L.