Aspects of Seed Dormancy in Fall Panicum (Panicum dichotomiflorum)

Abstract

Caryopses (seeds) of fall panicum(Panicum dichotomiflorumMichx.) have a dormancy that is not easily overcome. Although accelerated after-ripening for 4 weeks was partially successful in overcoming dormancy, a dark imbibition at 35 C for about a week was more effective and also interacted strongly with an accelerated after-ripening. In either case, activation of phytochrome by red irradiation was required to induce germination. Similarly, alternating temperatures allowed germination of red-treated seeds but constant temperatures did not. More seeds germinated in sealed flasks than in dishes. The enhancement of germination in sealed flasks appeared to be related to increased CO2levels. The data suggested a multiple dormancy in fall panicum seeds. One dormancy, the most intense, was relieved by high-temperature imbibition. The residual dormancy was relieved by active phytochrome and alternating temperatures.