Desiccation does not increase frost resistance of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) seeds

Abstract

Key message: Decreasing acorns moisture content does not significantly increase the frost resistance of pedunculate oak seeds. Slight reduction in acorn moisture content below the relatively high, optimal level decreased seed survival at temperatures below − 5 °C. The limiting temperature for pedunculate oak’s acorns below which they lose their ability to germinate is about − 10 °C. Context: Seed moisture content plays an important role in successful seed storage of many species, as desiccation increases frost resistance; however, oak seeds tolerate desiccation only to a very small extent. Aims: In our study, we examined the impact of decreasing moisture content in acorns of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) on their frost resistance (below − 3 °C) and the growth of seedling derived from frozen seeds. Methods: Germination and seedling emergence of individual seeds, as well as the dry mass of their 3-month-old seedlings, were measured after acorn desiccation (24–40%, fresh weight basis) and desiccation followed by freezing at temperatures from − 3 °C to − 18 °C for 2 weeks. Results: Decreasing acorns moisture content did not significantly increase the frost resistance of pedunculate oak seeds. The lowest temperature at which at least half seeds remain viable was − 10 °C. Slight acorns desiccation had only a small positive effect on seeds frozen below − 11 °C (down to − 13 °C), but in this case (acorn moisture content of 33%), low germinability after freezing made storage uneconomic because of the high mortality of seeds. Germinated seeds after desiccation and freezing showed no significant difference in later growth. Conclusion: Fresh pedunculate oak seed can survive freezing temperature down to − 10 °C and produce good quality seedlings. Temperatures around − 11° to − 13 °C are near lethal to acorns and significantly reduce their viability. Overall, desiccation does not increase their frost resistance; therefore, in practice, it is important to keep acorns during a cold storage in the highly hydrated state.