Storage humidity and temperature affect dormancy loss and viability of tanglehead (Heteropogon contortus) seeds

Abstract

Tanglehead (Heteropogon contortus) is a drought- and fire-tolerant native Hawaiian grass that possesses seed dormancy on shedding. Although a dry after-ripening period is known to break dormancy, specific storage conditions to optimize this are not known. This study examined the effects of storage temperature and equilibrium relative humidity (eRH) on tanglehead seed dormancy loss and viability. Fresh seeds harvested in Mar. and Oct. 2011 were stored for 30 days in three eRH levels (12%, 50%, and 75%) and then incubated for 0, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months at three temperatures [10, 20 (ambient in laboratory), and 30 °C]. The eRHs were maintained during incubation by sealing seeds in airtight packages. Seed germination and tetrazolium tests were conducted after each incubation period to determine dormancy loss and seed viability. Analysis of germination and seed viability data indicated a significant interaction among eRH, storage temperature, incubation period, and seed harvest month. Storage at 12% eRH and 30 °C for 12 months optimized dormancy loss of tanglehead seeds. Seeds remained viable in all eRH and temperature combinations except those stored at either 75% eRH and 20 °C or 75% eRH and 30 °C. In these treatment combinations, significant seed deterioration and loss of viability were recorded. Harvest time (i.e., harvest month) within the year also affected the rate of dormancy loss of seeds. March-harvested seeds achieved maximum dormancy loss 3 months earlier than seeds harvested in October.