Abstract

Salen and salophen type of ligands have the ability to form stable complexes with Zn2+ and thereby can increase
the availability of Zn2+ for plants when used as growth promoters in ppm level. Four Schiff base ligands and
their Zn2+ complexes were synthesized and characterized by different analytical and spectroscopic techniques.
These Schiff bases and their Zn2+ complexes were applied to the seeds of papaya (Carica papaya L.). The efficacy
of the complexes was monitored through the parameters like germination, root growth, seedling growth, leaf-
chlorophyll content, leaf-zinc content, etc. Among the complexes it was found that [N, N-(o-phenylene)-bis-
(3‑methoxysalicylidenediamine)] monohydrate is more efficient for different horticultural traits when used in
papaya seeds and can be used as eco-friendly plant growth promoter and source of zinc to plants like papaya.