Effects of sodium hypochlorite sterilization and dry cold storage on germination of Juncus effusus L.
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Published source details
Ervin G.N. & Wetzel R.G. (2002) Effects of sodium hypochlorite sterilization and dry cold storage on germination of Juncus effusus L.. Wetlands, 22, 191-195.
Published source details Ervin G.N. & Wetzel R.G. (2002) Effects of sodium hypochlorite sterilization and dry cold storage on germination of Juncus effusus L.. Wetlands, 22, 191-195.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Treat seeds of non-woody plants with chemicals before sowing: freshwater wetlands Action Link |
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Treat seeds of non-woody plants with chemicals before sowing: freshwater wetlands
A replicated, controlled study in 1999 in a laboratory in Alabama, USA (Ervin & Wetzel 2002) found that sterilizing common rush Juncus effusus seeds before sowing increased their germination rate. In three of three comparisons, the germination rate was higher for sterilized seeds (93–96% germinated) than unsterilized seeds (53–81% germinated). Methods: In June 1999, common rush seeds were added to nutrient medium in 24-well cell culture plates. In 74 wells, the seeds had been sterilized before sowing, i.e. rinsed in deionized water, ethanol and bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite). In the other 74 wells, seeds had not been sterilized (presumably subjected to none of the rinsing treatments, although this was not clearly reported). Each well contained 5–10 field-collected seeds, stored for two days, two weeks or one year before sowing. Germination was monitored for 2–3 weeks.
(Summarised by: Nigel Taylor)
