Generative propagation and fertilisation of Stipeae species – wild grasses with ornamental potential

Abstract

The wild grasses are of increasing interest among landscape architects. The appropriate plant selection is crucial for the subsequent survival and growth of plants in grassy gardens. The aim of the experiment was to assess the influence of seed age (1–3-year old seeds) on the germination of three Stipeae species: Eriocoma occidentalis subsp. californica, Stipa pulcherrima and Hesperostipa curtiseta. The seed weight and germination percentage showed a decline over a period of seed storage. There was 31–84% (depending on species) loss in germinability of 3-year old seeds in comparison to 1-year old seeds. After germination, plants were repotted and treated with Osmocote (a slow-release fertiliser, N15 + P10 + K12). The results indicated that fertilisation significantly increased the number of roots, stems, leaf length, leaf dry weight, chlorophylls and proline content. None of the tested species flowered in the year of sowing but in the next growing season. Plants fertilised in the previous year formed more and of better quality inflorescence stems.