Long-term storage of service tree (Sorbus domestica L.) seeds and induction of their germination

Abstract

Service tree (Sorbus domestica L.) is a significant species with regard to the biodiversity of specific habitats. Its reproduction in natural conditions appears to be problematic and in the interest of preserving the countryside, forests and their biodiversity, it is necessary to apply controlled reproduction procedures. Therefore, when applying such procedures it is of crucial importance to optimize the storage and use of seed material. The objective of the present article is to evaluate the germination rates of seeds which were stored in the long term. 95% of the seeds preserved at low temperatures above zero in a normal refrigerator for 8 years germinated after stratification in wet sand. The germination rate of the same seeds when moistened without stratification was 0%. However, after removal of the seed coat, 76% of these seeds germinated without stratification. Storage of air-dried seeds in the cold (at temperatures above zero) is ideal and is better than freezing them to -20°C, as reported in the literature. Wet peat is completely unsuitable for stratification.

Volatile signature indicates viability of dormant orthodox seeds

“…Since there is no evidence for the occurrence of after‐ripening during storage at 40°C, we suggest that the warm treatment may contribute to the breakdown of the seed coat and release of seed coat‐imposed physical dormancy resulting in higher germination after subsequent cold stratification to release physiological dormancy (Afroze & O'Reilly, 2013). Similarly, higher germination after storage at ultra‐low temperatures, for example, −196°C could result from scarification of the seeds (Kushnarenko et al, 2010) as seed coat removal is known to release physical dormancy of Sorbus domesticana L. (Prknová, 2015).…”

Response of Rowan Berry (Sorbus redliana) Shoot Culture to Slow Growth Storage Conditions

“…Guidelines describing the conservation of Sorbus species such as S. domestica and S. cuneifolia suggest that at least 50 individuals should be protected in situ, as these are among the most endangered forest tree species in the world [ 21 , 22 , 23 ]. Ex situ methods are of great importance, and these include conservation in the form of seeds ( S. domestica ) [ 24 ], the cryopreservation of shoot tips [ 25 ], in vitro tissue culture [ 26 , 27 ], and culture in cold storage conditions [ 28 ]. However, the morphological and physiological response of each plant species must be investigated to develop optimal in vitro culture and storage conditions [ 29 ].…”