Seed technology aspects of flower seed germination
1987
Alderson, P.G.
A knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of flower seeds is essential for the harvesting of technology available to improve their germination performance. Barriers to germination at the time of sowing seeds include embryo immaturity, the impermeability of fruit and seed coats and the presence of chemical inhibitors. Some of these barriers may be removed or 'broken down' in time if the seeds are provided with the correct physical environment, but the germination performance of such seeds is usually non-uniform and unpredictable. Scarification, by physical or chemical means, improves the rate and uniformity of germination of some flower seeds, e.g. Freesia and Pelargonium. Other pre-sowing seed treatments, e.g. 'priming' in osmotic solutions, high temperatures and plant growth regulators, may permit germination to a certain stage of the process or promote more uniform germination in a batch of seeds. The significance of seed technology to the commercial grower is the potential for improved programming of flower crops through precision sowing and improved seedling emergence.
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