Abstract:

We studied the effect of different storage conditions and durations on seed viability and germination of five desert rare species, Ammopiptanthus mongolicus , Tetraena mongolica , Reaumuria trigyna, Amygdalus mongolica and Zygophyllum xanthoxylum . The results showed that storage conditions and durations did not significantly affect seed viability of R . trigyna and A. mongolica , which were above 90% after 12 months’ storage. Seed viability of A . mongolicus , T . mongolica and Z . xanthoxylum became lower when storage duration prolonged. Storage conditions and durations also did not significantly affect seed germination of R . trigyna and A. mongolica . Storage conditions had no significant effect on seed germination of T . mongolica and Z . xanthoxylum , while storage duration had significant effect on them. Germination of A . mongolicus was significantly affected by storage conditions and durations. Characteristics of seed storage and germination could provide theory basis for vegetation restoration.

Key words: west Erdos, storage condition, seed viability, seed germination, desert plants