Quality of seeds as a key to commodity cultivation of Lavatory Thuringiaca L. - plants with high potential (...)
Date added: | 2015-04-01 |
Type: | Article |
Languages: | English |
Author / authors
Abstract
Lavatera thuringiaca ‘Uleko’ is a perennial plant little-known in Poland, although it has a very high potential for multi directional use in several areas of economy. However, very low seed germination harvested in the harvest ripening (maturity) phase (5-20%) makes commercial production of these plants difficult and reduces the economic efficiency of crops. The aim of this study was to develop effective methods of breaking seed dormancy using scarification. The study indicated the possibility of increasing the germination of seeds up to over 40% with mechanical scarification, and up to 85% after exposure to sulfuric acid. Application of these methods positively influenced the physiological activity, health and germination of seeds, as well as emergence and growth of plants, which can facilitate the production of this species on large acreages.