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Seed Dormancy and Germination of Horticultural Plants
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Seed Dormancy and Germination of Horticultural Plants

A topical collection in Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This collection belongs to the section "Propagation and Seeds".

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Editors

Dr. Ju-Sung Cho

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
1. Division of Animal, Horticultural and Food Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
2. Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
Interests: seed dormancy; seed priming; resource plant; seed oils; seed quality; germination enhancement; seed extract
Dr. Sergio Ruffo Roberto

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Department of Agronomy, Agricultural Research Center, Londrina State University, Celso Garcia Cid Road, Londrina P.O. Box 10.011, Brazil
Interests: horticulture; fruit crops; post-harvest; fruit ripening
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

In horticulture, seeds are still an important propagation material.

For propagation using seeds, germination conditions, the vigor and dormancy of the seeds must be considered.

In addition to the well-known horticultural crops, it is very important to understand the dormancy and germination of seeds for the propagation of plants that can be developed as horticultural crops.

Therefore, in this Topical Collection, seeds of current horticultural crops and seeds of plants with high horticultural development value are targeted.

Of course, techniques to promote germination (seed priming, etc.) are important, but this Topical Collection also focuses on the types of seed dormancy, germination due to dormancy breaking, and methodologies for dormancy breaking.

Through this Topical Collection, it is hoped that the research contents and information will be shared among researchers targeting the aforementioned seeds, and that further mutual joint research will be conducted.

Dr. Ju-Sung Cho
Dr. Sergio Ruffo Roberto
Collection Editors

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Keywords

  • seed dormancy type
  • seed-dormancy breaking
  • plant growth regulator
  • seed vigor
  • seed pretreatment
  • seed quality
  • germination conditions

Published Papers (20 papers)

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2024

Jump to: 2023, 2022

14 pages, 2723 KiB  
Article
Study on Dormant and Germination Characteristics of Chinese Olive (Canarium album) Seeds
by Qian Xie, Qinghua Ye, Ting Liu, Zhanhong Chen and Qingxi Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(4), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040362 - 05 Apr 2024
Viewed by 339
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the dormancy type of Chinese olive seeds and improve their germination rate. The water permeability and germination-inhibiting substances of Chinese olive seeds were assessed. Low-temperature stratification and soaking in a GA3 solution were implemented to measure the time [...] Read more.
This study aimed to determine the dormancy type of Chinese olive seeds and improve their germination rate. The water permeability and germination-inhibiting substances of Chinese olive seeds were assessed. Low-temperature stratification and soaking in a GA3 solution were implemented to measure the time lag, initial time, germination rate, and germination potential of the seeds. The findings revealed that the seed coat exhibited poor water permeability, which negatively influenced the germination rate. Additionally, Chinese olive seeds contained substances that inhibited germination. The duration of low-temperature stratification (at 4 ± 1 °C) gradually diminished the dormancy of Chinese olive seeds, resulting in early and rapid germination. The germination rate significantly increased, with the percentage of seed germination rising from 0% to 42.33% within 60 days of stratification. Furthermore, combining low-temperature stratification with different concentrations of GA3 notably enhanced the germination rate. The optimal concentrations of gibberellins for 40 and 60 days of stratification were determined to be 300 and 100 mg/L, respectively. These results indicate that Chinese olive seeds possess non-deep physiological dormancy. Full article
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14 pages, 2258 KiB  
Article
Selenium Seed Priming and Biostimulation Influence the Seed Germination and Seedling Morphology of Jalapeño (Capsicum annuum L.)
by María de los Ángeles Sariñana-Navarrete, Adalberto Benavides-Mendoza, Susana González-Morales, Antonio Juárez-Maldonado, Pablo Preciado-Rangel, Esteban Sánchez-Chávez, Gregorio Cadenas-Pliego, Adriana Antonio-Bautista and Álvaro Morelos-Moreno
Horticulturae 2024, 10(2), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10020119 - 25 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1058
Abstract
The priming of seeds is shown as a viable technique to improve germination, the growth of the radicle and plumule, and the seedling vigor index, which gives rise to seedlings with higher quality and tolerance to environmental growing conditions. Sodium selenite (Na2 [...] Read more.
The priming of seeds is shown as a viable technique to improve germination, the growth of the radicle and plumule, and the seedling vigor index, which gives rise to seedlings with higher quality and tolerance to environmental growing conditions. Sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) and selenium nanoparticles (nSe) were used as priming media and postgermination biostimulation in seeds of jalapeño pepper, in concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 mg L−1 for the two Se species, and control treatment. This research aimed to determine the priming response of jalapeño pepper regarding the germination percent, germination speed index, radicle length, plumule length, fresh weight, and seedling vigor index. The stimulation and phytotoxicity thresholds were also computed. The results showed a percentage of germination greater than 80% in all concentrations evaluated. Most variables of jalapeño pepper presented stimulation responses at Na2SeO3 doses lower than 5 mg L−1 and nSe doses lower than 15 mg L−1. The higher daily germination was favored by nSe on the fifth day compared to the sixth day of Na2SeO3; in addition, the higher cumulative germination occurred on the sixth day with nSe and on the eighth day with Na2SeO3. The use of low Na2SeO3 concentrations positively favors germination and the morphological traits of the shoots. Likewise, the use of Se in nanometric form was friendlier, that is, the degree of tolerance to Se was higher. Full article
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2023

Jump to: 2024, 2022

13 pages, 5148 KiB  
Article
Germination, Physicochemical Properties, and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) Seeds as Affected by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma
by Prapasiri Ongrak, Nopporn Poolyarat, Suebsak Suksaengpanomrung, Kamtorn Saidarasamoot, Yaowapha Jirakiattikul and Panumart Rithichai
Horticulturae 2023, 9(12), 1269; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9121269 - 27 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1090
Abstract
Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma has been utilized as a sustainable technology to enhance seed germination in various plant species. The objective of this research was to identify the mechanism of physicochemical properties and antioxidant enzyme activities to promote kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica [...] Read more.
Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma has been utilized as a sustainable technology to enhance seed germination in various plant species. The objective of this research was to identify the mechanism of physicochemical properties and antioxidant enzyme activities to promote kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) seed germination using different durations of DBD plasma treatments. Seeds were exposed to atmospheric DBD plasma from 5 to 20 min, compared to non-treated seeds as the control. According to SEM images, the seed surface had cracks and grew wider as a result of the prolonged DBD plasma treatments. A longer DBD plasma treatment exhibited a lower water contact angle and increased water absorption. DBD plasma treatments strongly improved germination percentages and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents. Seeds treated with DBD plasma for 20 min showed the highest malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the lowest field emergence. Catalase (CAT) activity increased under DBD plasma treatments for 5 and 10 min. Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were not statistically different among the treatments. This finding suggested that DBD plasma treatments stimulated the germination of kangkong seeds by modifying the seed surface, and upregulating H2O2 content and CAT activity. Five minutes was an appropriate time to treat DBD plasma. Full article
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15 pages, 1429 KiB  
Article
Citrus Extract Found Potent in the Control of Seed-Borne Fungal Pathogens of Pearl Millet—A Recommendation for Farmers’ Seed Saving Systems
by Matthew Akalagtota Anafo, Issah Sugri, Peter Anabire Asungre, Theresa Ankamah-Yeboah, John Saviour Yaw Eleblu and Eric Yirenkyi Danquah
Horticulturae 2023, 9(10), 1075; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9101075 - 26 Sep 2023
Viewed by 839
Abstract
Seed saving is crucial to ensure seed and food security, especially in developing countries. In Ghana, about 90% of pearl millet farmers utilise farmer-saved seed for production. Such seeds usually have a low germination rate, and may carry important seed-borne pathogens. In this [...] Read more.
Seed saving is crucial to ensure seed and food security, especially in developing countries. In Ghana, about 90% of pearl millet farmers utilise farmer-saved seed for production. Such seeds usually have a low germination rate, and may carry important seed-borne pathogens. In this study, the quality of farmer-saved seeds and the potential of botanicals to control seed-borne fungi were examined. A structured questionnaire was administered to 120 farmers from Garu, Bongo and Kassana-Nankana districts in Ghana. During the survey, 60 samples of farmer-saved seed were obtained for seed quality evaluation. Aqueous extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica) and citrus (Citrus sinensis) were prepared as seed treatments compared with a control. Fourteen (14) fungal species were associated with the seed samples, but the four dominant ones were Curvularia spp. (62%), Talaromyces spp. (53%), Aspergillus spp. (52%) and Exserohilum spp. (42%). The application of citrus extract inhibited fungal incidence (15–31.7%) compared to neem extract (33.3–93.3%) and the control (96.7–98.3%). The application of citrus extract resulted in a higher (74.7–82.8%) field germination rate compared to neem extract (62.3–73.2%) and the control (65.5–69.2%). The citrus extract was the most efficient treatment in reducing the incidence of fungi and enhancing the seed germination and vigour of pearl millet. Full article
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12 pages, 3208 KiB  
Article
Dormancy Characteristics of Euphorbia maculata L. Seeds and Strategies for Their Effective Germination
by Kyungtae Park, Hamin Lee, Bo-Kook Jang and Ju-Sung Cho
Horticulturae 2023, 9(9), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9090990 - 01 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1053
Abstract
Euphorbia maculata L. has been confirmed to have functional properties, including anticytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects. However, studies on the dormancy and germination of its seeds for cultivation purposes are lacking. The potential of E. maculata as a valuable plant species has not [...] Read more.
Euphorbia maculata L. has been confirmed to have functional properties, including anticytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects. However, studies on the dormancy and germination of its seeds for cultivation purposes are lacking. The potential of E. maculata as a valuable plant species has not been fully realized due to the lack of understanding of its seed dormancy and germination characteristics. E. maculata seeds were collected and germination tests were performed at various temperatures to determine their dormant state. Next, seeds were stratified with various temperatures, and treated temperature conditions similar to those of its natural habitat to induce dormancy release. The seeds exhibited very low germination below 30 °C, which indicates the possibility of innate dormancy. Subsequently, dormancy was released by cold stratification, and an expansion in the temperature range suitable for germination was observed, confirming that E. maculata seeds exhibit conditional dormancy. Conversely, high-temperature moist stratification did not effectively break dormancy as it led to seed decay. Therefore, we treated the seeds at various high temperatures in a dry environment. This facilitated dormancy release without the need for moist stratification, allowing for seed storage while ensuring the uniform and rapid production of E. maculata seedlings and minimizing seed wastage. Additionally, seeds with broken dormancy did not require a high temperature for germination, making them more cost-effective. Therefore, comprehensively examining germination and dormancy characteristics may optimize the cultivation process of this valuable plant species, E. maculata. Full article
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18 pages, 3643 KiB  
Article
Morphogenesis Changes in Protocorm Development during Symbiotic Seed Germination of Dendrobium chrysotoxum (Orchidaceae) with Its Mycobiont, Tulasnella sp.
by Xinzhen Gao, Yu Wang, Die Deng, Yinling Luo, Shicheng Shao and Yan Luo
Horticulturae 2023, 9(5), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9050531 - 24 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3310
Abstract
The endangered epiphytic orchid, Dendrobium chrysotoxum, is known for its ornamental and medicinal uses. However, knowledge of this orchid’s symbiotic seed germination, protocorm anatomy, and developmental morphology is completely unknown. In this study, we investigated the process of protocorm development of D. [...] Read more.
The endangered epiphytic orchid, Dendrobium chrysotoxum, is known for its ornamental and medicinal uses. However, knowledge of this orchid’s symbiotic seed germination, protocorm anatomy, and developmental morphology is completely unknown. In this study, we investigated the process of protocorm development of D. chrysotoxum during symbiotic germination using anatomical technologies and scanning electron microscopy. There are six development stages that were morphologically and anatomically defined during symbiotic seed germination. The embryo transformed into a protocorm at stage two, and a protrusion developed from the top of the protocorm at stage three and elongated to form the cotyledon at stage four. The stem apical meristem (SAM) was initiated at stage three and well developed at stage four. The first leaf and the root appeared at stages five and six, respectively. The hyphae entered through the micropylar end of the seed at stage one and then invaded the protocorm through rhizoids when rhizoids formed. Invading fungal hyphae colonized the inner cortex at the base of protocorms, formed pelotons, and were digested by host cells later. We conclude that protocorm development is programmed by the embryo, which determines the structure and function of the protocorm. The two developmental zones in a polarized D. chrysotoxum embryo include the smaller cells zone, which forms the cotyledon and a shoot apical meristem at the apical end, and the larger cells zone, which forms the mycorrhiza to house the symbiont at the basal end. These results will provide important insights for further research on the mechanisms underlying orchid-fungi symbiosis and enhance the understanding of orchid evolution. Full article
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17 pages, 1266 KiB  
Article
Effects of Pre-Treatments and Conservation Conditions on Seed Viability and Germination of Two Varieties of an Endangered Species Anacyclus pyrethrum (L.) Link (Asteraceae)
by Fatima Zahra Jawhari, Hamada Imtara, Abdelfattah El Moussaoui, Hind Khalis, Imane Es-safi, Asmaa Saleh, Omkulthom Al kamaly, Mohammad Khalid Parvez and Amina Bari
Horticulturae 2023, 9(4), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9040472 - 10 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1646
Abstract
This research presents, for the first time, a study of seed germination for two varieties, ‘Anacyclus pyrethrum var. pyrethrum (L.) Link’ and ‘Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus (Ball.) Maire’, of an endemic and endangered medicinal species listed in the IUCN red list [...] Read more.
This research presents, for the first time, a study of seed germination for two varieties, ‘Anacyclus pyrethrum var. pyrethrum (L.) Link’ and ‘Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus (Ball.) Maire’, of an endemic and endangered medicinal species listed in the IUCN red list as Anacyclus pyrethrum (L.) Link. Our objective was to provide information for their protection as well as a sustainable development strategy, by understanding whether the seeds germinate easily or have very specific germination requirements, and whether the storage conditions provided for the seeds were sufficiently favorable for the development of the species. A study of seed germination of the two varieties was conducted on lots of 25 seeds for each variety/treatment. Five treatments were used to break seed dormancy, which were chemical scarification with sulphuric acid (H2SO4), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and potassium nitrate (KNO3); hot water (80 °C); and cold scarification at 4 °C. The viability was examined for stored seeds (6 months, 1 year and 2 years) and for those that did not germinate after the germination test at harvest, using the tetrazolium test. The dormancy was broken via cold scarification (4 °C) and chemical scarification (H2O2, H2SO4, NP (KNO3)). The results also showed that a long storage time in wet cold (4 °C) causes a loss of seed viability, whereas a long storage time at −17 °C causes seed dormancy, which can be broken by cold scarification and chemical scarification. It was concluced that the rarity of the species was not due to the reproductive system, but to the overexploitation of the species during the flowering season, which influenced the natural regeneration of the species. Full article
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12 pages, 992 KiB  
Review
Review of the Current Research Progress of Seed Germination Inhibitors
by Peng Chenyin, Wu Yu, Shi Fenghou and Shen Yongbao
Horticulturae 2023, 9(4), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9040462 - 05 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5753
Abstract
Germination inhibitors, which inhibit the germination of seeds, spores and other plant reproductive material, are abundant in the plant kingdom and include phenols, cyanides, alkaloids, essential oils, amino acids, etc. These inhibitors can be classified as germination destructors and germination retarders depending on [...] Read more.
Germination inhibitors, which inhibit the germination of seeds, spores and other plant reproductive material, are abundant in the plant kingdom and include phenols, cyanides, alkaloids, essential oils, amino acids, etc. These inhibitors can be classified as germination destructors and germination retarders depending on whether they harm the morphology, structure and physiology of the seed. Germination retarders are closely related to seed dormancy, and exogenous retarders can be used to extend the “dormancy” period of non-dormant seeds or perishable seeds by applying the proper dosage. They have significant potential applications as preservatives for seed preservation following harvest or for the storage of long-term germplasm resources. Germination destructors, as a type of relatively high-efficiency, low-specificity “toxic chemicals”, are of significant benefit in the application of effective and environmentally benign herbicides. At present, the main problems related to the research methods of germination inhibitors include difficulty in determining the specific endogenous substances and the minimum inhibitory concentration to induce dormancy, as well as whether the application of exogenous inhibitors will cause physiological damage to seeds. In the future, we should strengthen the tracking of germination inhibitors, explore the mechanisms of action of specific substances and deeper molecular mechanisms and finally explore new developments and new applications of different inhibitors. Full article
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12 pages, 714 KiB  
Article
Impact of GA3 on Sugar and Lipid Degradation during Annona x atemoya Mabb. Seed Germination
by Carolina Ovile Mimi, Marília Caixeta Sousa, Patrícia Luciana Carriel Corrêa, Ivan De-la-Cruz-Chacón, Carmen Sílvia Fernandes Boaro and Gisela Ferreira
Horticulturae 2023, 9(3), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9030388 - 16 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1305
Abstract
Gibberellins act to overcome dormancy and increase the germination rate of seeds of several species, including the genus Annona. Considering that Annona seeds have a high lipid content and have few sugars, the degradation of such reserves from the application of gibberellins [...] Read more.
Gibberellins act to overcome dormancy and increase the germination rate of seeds of several species, including the genus Annona. Considering that Annona seeds have a high lipid content and have few sugars, the degradation of such reserves from the application of gibberellins has not been described so far. This study aimed to evaluate how the application of different gibberellic acid (GA3) concentrations acts on the sugar and lipid degradation pattern during the germination of atemoya seeds (Annona x atemoya Mabb.). Therefore, two experiments were carried out, one to evaluate the effect of GA3 on the germination process and another to evaluate the degradation of the reserves. To study the effect of GA3 on germinability, four treatments with GA3 concentrations of 0, 250, 500, and 1000 mg L−1 were used. To study the degradation of reserves, the four GA3 concentrations and five collection times were used (dry seed; seed with 1 day, 5 days, and 10 days of water acquisition; and seeds with primary root emission). Atemoya seeds showed an increase in germinability and changes in the sugar and lipid degradation pattern during the germination process in response to the treatments with GA3. Lipid and sugar degradation was observed from 24 h after seed immersion in GA3. The highest GA3 concentrations (500 and 1000 mg L−1) led to increases of 25% and 20%, respectively, in the germination rate, intensification of lipid degradation in seeds with primary root emission, and a decrease in sugar concentration until the 5th day. Full article
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11 pages, 1621 KiB  
Article
Seed Longevity Potential Predicted by Radicle Emergence (RE) Vigor Test in Watermelon Seed Cultivars
by Erkan Eren, Sıtkı Ermis, Guleda Oktem and Ibrahim Demir
Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020280 - 19 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1885
Abstract
The study was conducted to test whether radicle emergence (RE) would correlate with the storage potential of ten seed lots of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nakai) hybrid cultivars (>98% normal germination). The RE test was performed by frequent counting radicle [...] Read more.
The study was conducted to test whether radicle emergence (RE) would correlate with the storage potential of ten seed lots of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nakai) hybrid cultivars (>98% normal germination). The RE test was performed by frequent counting radicle emergence (2 mm) percentage between 34 h and 60 h after germination was set up at 25 °C in the dark. Seed longevity was hermetically determined by artificial storage of seeds (air and waterproof) at 17 ± 0.3% of seed moisture and at 35 ± 2 °C over 63 days. Twelve seed samples were taken out during aging, and seed survival curves were constructed based on normal germination percentages conducted at 25 °C for seven days in the dark. The seed longevity criterion was P50 (time for the germination to fall to 50%), which was determined through probit analysis by using survival curves. Correlation analysis showed that RE counts at 42 h during germination were highly correlated (p < 0.01) with initial seed quality, Ki (r = 0.7538), and the half-viability period, P50 (r = 0.7936). Pre-storage normal germination percentages of seed lots were not related to longevity. Results showed that the RE vigor test has the potential to predict longevity in highly germinating hybrid watermelon seed lots. Full article
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13 pages, 5982 KiB  
Article
Standardization of an In Vitro Seed Germination Protocol Compared to Acid Scarification and Cold Stratification Methods for Different Raspberry Genotypes
by Valeria Pergolotti, Micol Marcellini, Elida Contreras, Bruno Mezzetti, Marina Gambardella, Franco Capocasa and Silvia Sabbadini
Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020153 - 25 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3158
Abstract
In raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) breeding programs, seed double dormancy causes delayed and low germination rates. In this study, an in vitro germination protocol was developed to increase raspberry seed germination rate and decrease germination time. This protocol was optimized on the [...] Read more.
In raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) breeding programs, seed double dormancy causes delayed and low germination rates. In this study, an in vitro germination protocol was developed to increase raspberry seed germination rate and decrease germination time. This protocol was optimized on the cultivars “Polka” and “Tulamagic”, specifically, their open-pollinated seeds, by applying two different cutting types (transverse, or longitudinal), followed by two different treatments (direct in vitro culture at 24 °C, or 2 weeks at 4 °C followed by in vitro culture at 24 °C). The best results for both cultivars were obtained when seeds were cut transversally and directly cultured in vitro at 24 °C (germination rate 73–78%, starting germination time 4 days after treatment). The optimized in vitro protocol was applied to 14 different combination crosses, observing a germination frequency around 87%, and speed in line with “Polka” and “Tulamagic”. These results were compared to those from the 14 cross combinations having undergone acid scarification (95% H2SO4 for 30 min) and cold stratification (3 months), which, in comparison, only yielded a 25% average germination rate. The optimized in vitro protocol favors high germination efficiency for all raspberry genotypes tested, and presents advantages for the standardization of germination time and reduction in the parental genotypes’ impact on germination rate. Full article
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2022

Jump to: 2024, 2023

12 pages, 3637 KiB  
Article
Radicle Emergence as Seed Vigour Test Estimates Seedling Quality of Hybrid Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Cultivars in Low Temperature and Salt Stress Conditions
by Ibrahim Demir, Canan Oztokat Kuzucu, Sıtkı Ermis and Güleda Öktem
Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010003 - 20 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2313
Abstract
This work was conducted on the use of the RE (radicle emergence) test to estimate the seedling emergence (SE) and quality (seedling shoot weight (SSW), seedling root weight (SRW) and seedling height (SH)) of twelve hybrid cucumber seed lots with high germination (>95%) [...] Read more.
This work was conducted on the use of the RE (radicle emergence) test to estimate the seedling emergence (SE) and quality (seedling shoot weight (SSW), seedling root weight (SRW) and seedling height (SH)) of twelve hybrid cucumber seed lots with high germination (>95%) at low temperature conditions, high salt conditions and a combination of the two. The percentages of RE, which is a 2 mm radicle protrusion at 25 °C in the dark, were counted between 18 h and 32 h. The seeds were sown in peat moss in trays and kept at 15 °C (low temperature stress), or salty water was applied as 100 mM NaCl at 25 °C (salt stress) for three days, and both were applied in a combined-stress environment. Seedling emergence and quality parameters were reduced by both stress environments and their combination. SE, SSW, SRW and SH values ranged between: 91–100%, 614–844 mg, 102–143 mg, 6.8–8.8 cm at low temperature; 90–98%, 598–904 mg, 101–154 mg, 6.5–7.8 cm at salt stress; and 76–92%, 464–608 mg, 97–133 mg, 5.8–6.9 cm at their combination. The RE values with great differences seen among the lots (20–28 h) were regressed with seedling emergence and quality values. RE 24 h had the highest R2 and significant values in all stress environments as R2 = 0.596–0.858, p < 0.05–0.001 at low temperature; R2 = 0.620–0.827, p < 0.05–0.001 with salt; and R2 = 0.686–0.842, p < 0.05–0.001 with combined stresses. We concluded that RE as a vigour test can be used successfully to estimate the seedling quality of highly germinating hybrid cucumber seed lots. Use of the RE test in hybrid cucumber seeds and its influence on high-quality seedling production were discussed. Full article
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10 pages, 1743 KiB  
Article
Gibberellic Acid Concentrations and Storage of Caryocar brasiliense (Caryocaraceae) Seeds Propagated in Tubes
by Vander Rocha Lacerda, Levi Fraga Pagehú, Armando Pego Gonçalves, Rogério Lopes Vieites and Paulo Sérgio Nascimento Lopes
Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111094 - 20 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1659
Abstract
The immersion of seeds in gibberellic acid solutions can promote dormancy breaking. Storage can be dynamic in seed longevity. The objective of this work was to evaluate different concentrations of gibberellic acid applied to seeds isolated from two storage times on the emergence [...] Read more.
The immersion of seeds in gibberellic acid solutions can promote dormancy breaking. Storage can be dynamic in seed longevity. The objective of this work was to evaluate different concentrations of gibberellic acid applied to seeds isolated from two storage times on the emergence of C. brasiliense tree seedlings grown in tubes. There were two experiments with different planting and storage times. The seeds were extracted from the endocarp. In both, a randomized block design was used with the following seven treatments: 0, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg L−1 of GA3 and dry seeds without pre-soaking, with five replications of 20 seeds. The seeds were treated with fungicide and sown in tubes containing substrate. After 60 days, evaluations and transplantation were carried out. In the experiment with older pyrenes (seeds stored for seven months), there was high seed mortality (96.54%) and a small emergence rate (3.45%). On the other hand, when new pyrenes were used, the percentage of dead seeds was 32.71% and emergence was 62.28%. GA3 did not stimulate germination or the diameter of C. brasiliense tree seedlings, except for stem length. The 2000 concentration provided a greater stem length and greater leaf area compared to dry seeds. Full article
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10 pages, 2304 KiB  
Article
Physiological Dormancy and Germination Characteristics of Maianthemum dilatatum (A. W. Wood) A. Nelson and J. F. Macbr. (Asparagaceae)
by Un-Seop Shin, Da-Hyun Lee, Young-Ho Jung, Jun-Hyeok Kim and Chae-Sun Na
Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111057 - 10 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1821
Abstract
This study was conducted to elucidate the germination characteristics and dormancy types in Maianthemum dilatatum (A. W. Wood) A. Nelson and J. F. Macbr. M. dilatatum seeds were collected from the Nari Basin on Ulleungdo Island, South Korea and used in a water [...] Read more.
This study was conducted to elucidate the germination characteristics and dormancy types in Maianthemum dilatatum (A. W. Wood) A. Nelson and J. F. Macbr. M. dilatatum seeds were collected from the Nari Basin on Ulleungdo Island, South Korea and used in a water imbibition test; the seed weight increased by approximately 20% within 48 h. The embryo-to-seed ratio at the time of seed dispersal was 0.57 ± 0.03. When the seeds were incubated under light and dark conditions, they germinated under dark conditions, and the germination rate was higher at 25 °C than at 20 °C. However, the final germination rates under dark conditions were 27.4 ± 3.6 and 47.1 ± 7.6%, respectively. Under 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks of cold stratification treatment, the highest germination rate of 83.6 ± 3.6% was observed at 25 °C at 12 weeks of cold stratification treatment, the germination start date was decreased by more than 10 d, and the mean germination time (MGT) was shortened from 50 d to 39 d. However, the germination rate, germination start date, and MGT did not differ significantly among the gibberellic acid hormone treatments. Therefore, it was evident that M. dilatatum demonstrated physiological dormancy (PD) that can broken by cold stratification treatment and dark conditions. Full article
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13 pages, 1407 KiB  
Article
New Insights into the Role of Alternating Temperatures and Cyanide in the ROS-Mediated Cardoon Seed Dormancy Termination
by Giuseppe Diego Puglia, Karina Balestrasse, José Santiago Bustos and Héctor Roberto Huarte
Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100960 - 17 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1361
Abstract
Physiological dormancy in wild cardoon (Cynara cardunculus var. sylvestris) can be terminated by achenes exposure to alternating temperatures, likely with the participation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Cyanide is a natural compound that mediates seed dormancy removal in some plant species [...] Read more.
Physiological dormancy in wild cardoon (Cynara cardunculus var. sylvestris) can be terminated by achenes exposure to alternating temperatures, likely with the participation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Cyanide is a natural compound that mediates seed dormancy removal in some plant species in association with oxidative signalling exerted by ROS. To date, no study has been conducted on the cyanide effect on ROS homeostasis during the germination of cardoon. Here, we showed that the addition of cyanide at low concentrations in dormant cardoon achenes promotes dormancy breakage at a constant temperature, speeds up germination to alternating temperatures and promotes ROS accumulation in embryonic axes of dormant achenes. The in-silico transcriptome analysis showed that the expression levels of transcripts of genes associated with ROS signalling and production, calcium signalling, gibberellins biosynthesis and cell wall loosening were significantly up-regulated at the alternating temperatures imbibition condition. In contrast, the expression of gene transcripts associated with the inhibition of germination, ABA biosynthesis and signalling were up-regulated at the constant temperature imbibition. However, no significant difference in lipid peroxidation or protein carbonylation levels was observed when achenes were imbibed at constant or alternating temperature conditions. These results suggest that dormancy termination triggered by alternating temperatures or cyanide could be mediated by ROS production and signalling in the cardoon embryonic axis, but this does not determine extensive protein carbonylation. Full article
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10 pages, 2005 KiB  
Article
Seed Dormancy and Germination Characteristics of Vaccinium oldhamii Miq. (Ericaceae)
by Da Hyun Lee, Chung Youl Park, Young Ho Jung, Jun Hyeok Kim, Sung Hyuk Park, Ho Jun Son, Chae Sun Na and Wan Geun Park
Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090836 - 11 Sep 2022
Viewed by 1703
Abstract
Vaccinium oldhamii Miq. is an edible berry; however, little is known about its seed dormancy-break and germination. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the seed-dormancy break and germination characteristics of V. oldhamii. The results showed that the length [...] Read more.
Vaccinium oldhamii Miq. is an edible berry; however, little is known about its seed dormancy-break and germination. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the seed-dormancy break and germination characteristics of V. oldhamii. The results showed that the length and width of the seeds of V. oldhamii were 2.4588 ± 0.0273 mm and 1.7028 ± 0.0248 mm, respectively, the filled percentage was 49.0 ± 3.0%, and the 1000-seed weight was 0.9453 g. Additionally, water imbibition test showed that the seed weight of V. oldhamii increased by more than 70% after 24 h, indicating the absence of physical dormancy. Embryo length measured at dispersal and just before germination did not differ significantly. There was no significant difference in E:S (Embryo:Seed) ratio in length at the time of seed dispersal (0.6780 ± 0.0258) and before germination (0.7370 ± 0.0469), indicating the absence of morphological dominance. Temperature treatments showed that the germination of the seed was 0, 6.0, 6.0, 20.0, and 0% under 15, 20, 25, 25/15, and 15/6 °C, respectively. However, treatment with 250 ppm of GA3 increased the germination of the seeds to 22.0, 36.0, 32.0, 40.0, and 1.0%, respectively. Additionally, treatment with 500 ppm of GA3 increased the germination to 34.6, 40.0, 40.0, 46.0 %, respectively. These results indicated that the seeds of V. oldhamii exhibited Nondeep physiological dormancy (Nondeep PD). Overall, the findings of this study showed that treatment with 500 ppm of GA3 at 25/15 °C can effectively break the dormancy of V. oldhamii seeds, which could facilitate further research on the species. Full article
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10 pages, 298 KiB  
Article
Temperature and GA3 as Modulating Factors in the Biosynthesis of Alkaloids during Imbibition and Early Development of Annona x atemoya Mabb. cv. ‘Gefner’ Seedlings
by Gustavo Cabral da Silva, Ivan de-la-Cruz-Chacón, Ana Beatriz Marques Honório, Bruna Cavinatti Martin, Marília Caixeta Sousa, Felipe Girotto Campos, Carmen Sílvia Fernandes Boaro and Gisela Ferreira
Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090766 - 26 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1551
Abstract
Alkaloids are products of the specialized metabolism of plants and temperature is a factor capable of modulating their biosynthesis. Species of the Annonaceae family biosynthesize alkaloids and present dormancy in their seeds, which can be overcome with the use of gibberellins. Therefore, the [...] Read more.
Alkaloids are products of the specialized metabolism of plants and temperature is a factor capable of modulating their biosynthesis. Species of the Annonaceae family biosynthesize alkaloids and present dormancy in their seeds, which can be overcome with the use of gibberellins. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate whether temperature variations and the use of gibberellin in seeds affect the production of alkaloids during germination and early development of Annona x atemoya Mabb. cv. ‘Gefner’ seedlings. Results showed that the temperature of 30 °C associated with imbibition in water caused an increase in the production of total alkaloids and liriodenine and that the use of gibberellin decreased production. In addition, it was possible to identify the presence of nine other alkaloids with organ-specific distribution. The presence of none of them was induced by the effect of temperature or gibberellic acid. Therefore, it could be concluded that temperature variation and the use of GA3 alter the biosynthesis of alkaloids, with high temperature causing increased concentration, but the use of GA3 reducing production. Full article
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16 pages, 335 KiB  
Article
Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Yellow and Purple Passion Fruit Genotypes Cultivated in Ecuador
by William Viera, Takashi Shinohara, Atsushi Sanada, Naoki Terada, Lenin Ron and Kaihei Koshio
Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080754 - 20 Aug 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2692
Abstract
Seed is a fundamental tool to carry out breeding processes and for the propagation of the crops; however, seed propagation generally has low and irregular germination. Passion fruit (Passiflora) species are economically important for Ecuador, which is the main exporter of [...] Read more.
Seed is a fundamental tool to carry out breeding processes and for the propagation of the crops; however, seed propagation generally has low and irregular germination. Passion fruit (Passiflora) species are economically important for Ecuador, which is the main exporter of passion fruit concentrate in Latin America. Ecuadorian farmers propagate new plants by seeds to establish new passion fruit orchards or to extend their cultivated area. The objective of this research was to determine the differences in germination and seedling development with the application of priming methods in five genotypes of passion fruit belonging to three different taxa that are of commercial use in Ecuador. The genotypes used were: INIAP 2009 and P10 (P. edulis f. flavicarpa), Gulupa (P. edulis f. edulis), and local germplasms POR1 (P. edulis f. flavicarpa) and PICH1 (P. maliformis). The priming methods were: water (control), hydrogen peroxide at 15%, potassium nitrate at 1%, PEG 6000 at −1.2 MPa, and gibberellic acid at 500 ppm. The results showed that there was a genotype-response depending on the priming method. Nevertheless, Polietilenoglicol (PEG 6000) could be considered as a promising method to encourage seed germination and promote seedling growth in the Passiflora species. More research regarding the use of this compound has to be carried out in order to determine in depth the physiological processes related to its functions to improve seed germination as well as production of vigorous seedlings. Full article
12 pages, 896 KiB  
Review
The Seed Traits Associated with Dormancy and Germination of Herbaceous Peonies, Focusing on Species Native in Serbia and China
by Tatjana Marković, Željana Prijić, Jingqi Xue, Xiuxin Zhang, Dragoja Radanović, Xiuxia Ren, Vladimir Filipović, Milan Lukić and Stefan Gordanić
Horticulturae 2022, 8(7), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8070585 - 28 Jun 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2334
Abstract
Even though peonies are highly valued as ornamental, medicinal, and edible species and are also considered to be long-lived and relatively disease and pest resistant, they are becoming rare or endangered in their natural habitats. This could be primarily associated with climate change [...] Read more.
Even though peonies are highly valued as ornamental, medicinal, and edible species and are also considered to be long-lived and relatively disease and pest resistant, they are becoming rare or endangered in their natural habitats. This could be primarily associated with climate change and unsustainable wild collecting practices. So far, in situ conservation efforts have received little attention. In addition, very little is known about the cultivation of herbaceous peonies, particularly their propagation from seeds. What is known is that their seeds possess double dormancy, often accompanied by a low germination rate, which, together, make the cultivation of herbaceous peonies more difficult. Based on a comprehensive analysis of relevant literature, this paper summarizes, analyzes, and discusses all available studies on the seed traits of herbaceous peonies associated with the effect of seed harvest time on dormancy and seed germination, with a strong focus on dormancy breaking procedures. Improving our understanding of dormancy release modalities (impacts of temperature, moisture, light, hormones, various pre-treatments, etc.) will aid the establishment and management of in situ and ex situ collections of valuable species of herbaceous peonies and enable further studies for their successful propagation, breeding, and cultivation. Full article
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13 pages, 3226 KiB  
Article
Seed Maturity and Its In Vitro Initiation of Chilean Endemic Geophyte Alstroemeriapelegrina L.
by Francesca Guerra, Patricia Peñaloza, Alexis Vidal, Ricardo Cautín and Mónica Castro
Horticulturae 2022, 8(5), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8050464 - 21 May 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2454
Abstract
Alstroemeria pelegrina (A. pelegrina), a Chilean endemic, is considered vulnerable as its natural habitat is currently threatened. The decline in the reproductive capacity of the species due to anthropogenic impacts and climate change has made it imperative to address the problem [...] Read more.
Alstroemeria pelegrina (A. pelegrina), a Chilean endemic, is considered vulnerable as its natural habitat is currently threatened. The decline in the reproductive capacity of the species due to anthropogenic impacts and climate change has made it imperative to address the problem by developing large-scale propagation methods. The objective of this study was to establish protocols for breaking the dormancy and in vitro germination of A. pelegrina seeds to speed up the germination and seedling production processes. The research began with morphological observations of the reproductive process, followed by in vitro sowing. The results showed that the seeds reached full maturity in 51 days, and physiological maturity in 41 days, at which point the seeds could be harvested for in vitro germination. The mechanical scarification pretreatment improves the in vitro germination rate to 96% and the germination time to 7 days, showing that the species is characterized by physical seed dormancy. On the other hand, if the seed coat incisions are deeper than 0.5 mm, 30% of the potential plants are lost due to embryo damage. The study provides scientific evidence for the feasibility of large-scale in vitro propagation of the species and establishes an efficient method of seedling production. Full article
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