Environmental and maternal factors affecting on oriental mustard (Sisymbrium orientale L.) and musk weed (Myagrum perfoliatum L.) seed germination

The effects of environmental and maternal factors on seed germination of oriental mustard and musk weed factors were investigated through a series of laboratory and pot experiments. In experiment 1, the effect of seed coat removal on musk weed seed germination at 25/ 15 degrees C (day/night) was evaluated. In experiment 2, seeds of both weeds were subjected to temperature and after-ripening treatments. In experiment 3, oriental mustard and musk weed seeds were treated by gibberellic acid (GA(3)). Experiment 4 was set up to evaluate the effects of intra and interspecific competition and seed position on plant canopy on seed germination behavior of oriental mustard. Seed coat-inhibited germination of musk weed. Dry after-ripening and temperature fluctuations did not promote germination of musk weed seed, while oriental mustard seed germination was promoted by after-ripening and temperature treatments. The maximum germination of oriental mustard seed occurred at 25/15 degrees C temperature and 2 months after ripening. Except in chickpea treatment, intra and interspecific competitions reduced oriental mustard seed germination. Seed dormancy in different layers of oriental mustard canopy was varied. Also, seed position on mother plant influenced the seed germination behavior of oriental mustard.