Allelopathic effects by Empetrum hermaphroditum on seed germination of two boreal tree species

Abstract

Allelopathy is an important factor explaining seed regeneration failures of Scots pine Pinus sylvestris in forest floor vegetation dominated by crowberry Empetrum hermaphroditum Scanning electron micrograph views of the leaf surfaces of E. hermaphroditum reveal secretory glands that are involved in the release of water-soluble phytotoxic substances. Low doses and short exposure times of seeds to leachates have strong negative effects on germination and early root development. Activated carbon can eliminate the inhibitory effects of leachates and litter. This technique demonstrates the occurrence of allelopathic interference by E. hermaphroditum on seed germination of both Scots pine and aspen Populus tremula. The allelopathic effects by E. hermaphroditum are strong during early spring when germination and growth initiated and ground ice still is present. Microorganisms may detoxify the allelochemicals under some environmental conditions. -from Authors