Seed dormancy and germination of Solanum rostratum

Seed germination tests were conducted to investigate dormancy and the methods of breaking dormancy of Solanum rostratum. Optimal conditions (combination of temperature, illumination and germination-bed) were selected for seed germination examination of the species. The results showed that seeds of S.rostratum had deep dormancy. Gibberellins (GA) treatment can effectively break the dormancy. Scarification of seed coat could partially break seed dormancy. The most optimal germination temperature was 30 ℃ constant temperature. Illumination had no effect on seed germination. Combined considering germination rate and germination speed, the optimal germination conditions were recommended as 30 ℃ constant temperature with appropriate illuminationon on Top-Paper germination bed. The first time to record germination was the 7th day after bedding and the last time to record was the 14th day after bedding. The normal seedling of S.rostratum should have a pair of well developed cotyledons, one taproot, and several lateral roots belonging to epigaeous dicotyledons seedling.