Optimization of seed pelleting for Festuca rubra by response surface methodology

Seeds of Festuca rubra were used as raw material to study the effects of seed pelleting on seed germination rate. Trial conditions were optimized by response surface methodology on basis of single factor tests. Different volumes of gibberellin diluent, attapulgite and water retention agent were used to study their different effects on seed germination rate. The results showed that the optimal conditions for seed pelleting content were 5mL gibberellin diluent, 9 g attapulgite and 15 g water retention agent which improved weight to 4 or 5 times of unpelleting seed. The germination rate could reach up to 94% under these conditions.