Seed gerlnination ofSolanum laciniatumAit

Abstract

Methods for improving the field germination of Solanum laciniatum were investigated in glasshouse trials. Sct:d was treated at -5 to 35°c for up to 72 hours; soaked in a range of concentrations of potassiuJ? nitra!e, gibberellic acid, indoleacetic acid, and calcium sulphate for up to 9 days; washed III runmng tap water for up to 5 days; and pelleted with a calcium and peat mixture. Soakings in potassium nitrate for 9 days or gibberellic acid for 6 days were the only treatments that significantly increased seedling emergence. There is evidence that poor seedling vigour after germination is a greater problem than poor germination as such.

Effect of temperature and light on the germination of seed ofSolanum aviculareandS. laciniatum

“…The germination and seedling establishment of Solanum aviculare and S. laciniatum have been reported to be slow and erratic (Foldesi et al 1963;Foldesi 1964;Fryer 1972;Sudiatso & Wilson 1974). The germination potential of seeds of both species is much better in the laboratory than that in the field (Porter & Gilmore 1976).…”