A recent study by Nigerian forestry expert Mr. Kelechi Godwin Ibeh has shed light on an innovative approach to seed regeneration that could revolutionise afforestation efforts in the country and across Africa. His research, which explores the effects of seed pretreatments, light intensity, and watering regimes on the woman’s tongue tree or siris tree (Albizia lebbeck), offers practical strategies for growing this economically and environmentally important tree even in drought-prone or shaded environments.
Mr Ibeh, a Lecturer in the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State, conducted his investigation as part of his Master’s research at the University of Ibadan. Speaking on the significance of the research, he explained: “Siris tree is a vital tree species with benefits ranging from soil nutrient recycling and erosion control to serving as fodder for animals. However, its synchronous germination and regeneration have remained a challenge due to dormancy. My work aims to solve this by providing science-based techniques for improving seedling establishment.”
The study tested various pretreatments such as sulphuric acid and natural plant extracts like pawpaw latex and plantain stem juice to break seed dormancy. Among the tested methods, 98% sulphuric acid produced the highest germination rate of 76%. Interestingly, pawpaw and plantain extracts also showed promise, offering more accessible and safer alternatives for local farmers and afforestation groups.
“Using 98% sulphuric acid might not be feasible or safe for smallholder farmers,” Ibeh noted. “That’s why it’s encouraging that pawpaw latex at 50% concentration gave a respectable 55% germination rate. These natural extracts can support large-scale plantation efforts, particularly in resource-limited communities.”
In the second phase of the study, Ibeh examined the performance of seedlings under different combinations of light intensity and watering frequency. He measured early growth variables such as plant height, collar diameter, number of leaves, and biomass distribution—including root, leaf, and stem dry weights. The experiment aimed to simulate various field conditions that seedlings might encounter post-planting.
“Seedlings under 75% light intensity combined with watering every three days showed the most balanced growth in terms of height, biomass accumulation, and leaf development,” he revealed. “It indicates that partial shading and moderate water stress can actually stimulate stronger and healthier seedling development in this species.”
The findings have broader implications for combating erosion and desertification, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing carbon sequestration in Nigeria and similar tropical ecosystems. Ibeh’s research also provides vital data for forest managers, policy makers, and environmental organisations looking to re-green Nigeria’s increasingly barren landscapes.
Mr. Ibeh’s long-term goal is to develop protocols for mass propagation of indigenous trees and orphaned tree crops especially those with ecological and economic relevance in Africa. “If we can streamline early growth through scientifically-backed practices, we can reduce seedling mortality and increase the success rate of tree planting campaigns,” he added.
He called on environmental agencies and NGOs involved in tree planting to adopt evidence-based approaches in their reforestation drives. “Random planting without understanding germination physiology and early seedling needs is counterproductive,” he warned. “This study provides a practical guide to get it right from the nursery.”
Mr. Ibeh’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry and Wildlife from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, and has since evolved into a research-focused career marked by his passion for ecological restoration and sustainable land use.
His experience includes an internship with the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, where he previously studied propagation techniques for the threatened bitter cola (Garcinia kola) species.
Currently, as a faculty member, he leads field-based research and mentors the next generation of forest scientists in Nigeria. He believes the time is ripe for integrating traditional knowledge with scientific innovation to solve environmental challenges. “The future of forestry lies in applied research that delivers tangible impact on the ground,” he concluded.
