Abstract

The Argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a drought-tolerant, and forest species observed in arid and semi-arid zone in Algeria, has specific ecological characteristics and many interests (forest, field, and fruit).  The natural reproduction of the tree has become difficult; we have assessed the propagation method by seedlings. In our experiments, we used two seed sources collected from Tindouf and Mostaganem. Based on the results of the regeneration of the Argan tree seedlings from the laboratory, we report that soaking of seed for at least four days will certainly contribute to the success of germination. Sterilization prevents microbial contamination and improves germination. According to the results, the germination tests revealed a very high rate of germination (95%) for seeds pre-soaked in water for 96 and 120 h at 25 and 30°C. The analysis of morphological characteristics of plants under greenhouse showed that there was growth in the root system of the argan seedlings and the aerial part improved quantitatively and qualitatively. Seedlings that acclimatized are two years and above, and had a well developed and lignified air device with a large leaf, which promotes their growth. The success rate for seedlings of 12 months was very low.

Key words: Argan tree, domestication, germination, pre-soaked, acclimatization, seedlings.