The role of cold storage and seed source in the germination of three Mediterranean shrub species with contrasting dormancy types

Abstract

Context: The use of native species in ecological restoration is highly recommended but, in practice, it is often impaired by knowledge gaps in the germination ecology of suitable species. Aims: This study aimed to assess the role of storage conditions and seed source on the germination of three Mediterranean shrub species with contrasting types of dormancy. Methods: Ripe fruits were harvested at two or three distant locations in mainland Portugal. Seeds were subjected to three treatments consisting in different storage conditions: cold storage at low and high moisture conditions, plus a control. Five replicates of up to 30 seeds were placed under constant temperature conditions and germination was monitored weekly during 14 weeks. Results: The effect of cold storage at high moisture on germination differed between the three species and seed source played a significant role in the germination of all three species. In the case of the species with dormancy, the observed differences in germination could reflect changes in the species’ dormancy degree or sensitivity to dormancy breaking factors across their geographical range. In the case of Pistacia lentiscus (no dormancy), the results suggested a possible adaptation of the northern seed source to high moisture conditions. Conclusions: The observed differences between species agreed well with their dormancy types, and the seed source-related differences could be adaptive features, as they seemed related with local climate conditions.