Effects of Microorganisms, Hormone Treatment and Stratification on Seed Germination of Goldenrain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)

Abstract

This study was conducted in an attempt to break dormancy and thus enhance germination of goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) seeds. Prior to sowing, seeds were treated as follows: (i) cold stratification of seeds at 4 degrees C for 30,45 and 60 days; (ii) soaking in 500 mg/L polystimulin (PS-A6+PS-K), gibberellic acid (GA(3)), or benzylaminopurine (BAP) for 24 h and stratification for 30 days; or (iii) soaking in 100 mL/L effective microorganisms (EM 1), 5000 mg/L PS-A6+PS-K, GA(3) and BAP for 72 h, followed by stratification for 45 days. Results indicated that the highest germination (94%) was obtained using 100 mL/L EM 1 application and stratification for 45 days at 4 degrees C. Stratification was also effective for breaking dormancy of K. paniculata seeds with EM I and 45 days or 60 days of stratification. (C) 2011 Friends Science Publishers