Effects of four environmental factors on the seed germination and seedling growth of Miscanthus sinensis

In order to study the germination characteristics of Miscanthus sinensis seeds, the influence of temperature, light time, soil water content and sowing depth on the seed germination and seedling growth were studied. The results indicated that the optimal temperature for M. sinensis seed germination was 25 ℃, and seed germination and seedling growth were inhibited under less than 10 ℃ treatment. The light time significantly influenced (P<0.05) the germination index, vigor index and seedling growth, and the optimal light time was 12 h although it had no effects on the germination rate. The most optimal soil water content was 10%, and M. sinensis seed germination were seriously inhibited (P<0.05) under 25% soil water content treatment. 4)Sowing depth had significantly (P<0.05) influence on the emergence rate and seedling growth. The most appropriate sowing depth was 3 mm. These results presented the information of the M. sinensis seed germination in the greenhouse and field.