EFFECT OF PEPERMINT AND OREGANO ESSENTIAL OIL ON OLIVE SEED GERMINATION

In the present study the allelopathic effect of oregano (Oregano vulgare) and peppermint (Menta piperita) essential oil on olive seed germination was investigated. Five different concentrations of each essential oil (0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5% and 1%) were used. The seed germination percentage were calculated to determine the essential oils effect. Results shows that different concentrations of oregano and peppermint essential oil had significant effect on seed germination. Essential oil of oregano had remarkable allelopathic effect in olive seed germination even in a low concentration. In contrast peppermint essential oil could reduce seed germination percentage at higher concentrations. At 1% essential oil concentration of both aromatic plants exhibits inhibitory effect.