Habitat-correlated Germination and Growth Characteristics in Intermountain Allium (Liliaceae)

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

HortScience

Volume

41

Issue

4

Publisher

American Society for Horticulture Science

Publication Date

7-2006

First Page

1025

Abstract

Seed germination timing strategies and seedling growth characteristics in wild populations have evolved in response to their life history, ecology, and habitat. In this study, we examined the ecophysiological aspects of seed germination and growth in three Allium species native to the Intermountain West (A. acuminatum, A. brandegei, and A. passeyi). Three populations of each species were studied along an elevation gradient resulting in low, mid, and high elevation sites for each species. We investigated seed dormancy patterns within and among species and their relation to habitat. Seeds collected at the study sites were subjected to cold (3 °C) moist stratification in low light to simulate the natural winter environment under snow. Stratification periods ranged from 0 to 24 weeks. After stratification, seeds were placed in lighted growth chambers at 8 °C to simulate the natural spring environment. Germination was observed for 4 weeks. Germinated seeds were then grown at either 12 °C or 16 °C until leaf senescence. Destructive sampling occurred at 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Bulb mass and water content were also assessed after leaf senescence. In the germination experiment, all species responded favorably to cold moist stratification, suggesting physiological seed dormancy. Germination percentages among species varied greatly with 98% germination in A. acuminatum, but only 33% in A. brandegei. Seedling survival and growth varied among species and in response to growing temperature. Observed patterns in seed germination and growth are typical of survival strategies in other spring ephemerals. Seed dormancy traits and seedling growth characteristics in these species have evolved to allow optimal success for their specific habitat.

Comments

Conference Issue- ASHS 2006, New Orleans. Abstract Only

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