Abstract:

Seeding physiology, viability and survival after cold storage were studied on Pinus tabulaeformis Carr., Platycladus orientalist (Linn.) Franco.When tree seedlings are held in cold, dark storage for prolonged periods of time, they are separated from the sources of environmental energy and information they need to develop in synchrony with the changing seasons. This affects many important physiological processes and variables. The change paterns of fungi infestation, chlorophyll contens, carbohydrate reserves, mineral nutrients, water potentials, RGP, DBB and electrolyte leakage of roots of cold stored Platycladus and Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. seedlings are investigated. The electrolyte leakage from fine roots is a very good indicator of stored seedlings viability. Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. seedlings require 35-80 days below 5℃ to overcome dormancy, whereas Platucladus seedlings have no such requirement.

Key words: Physiological index, Seedling viability, RGP, DBB, Carbohydrate, Electrolyte leakage of roots