R Ghafari, Fariba Meighani, F Ghasemkhani, H Salimi,
Volume 15, Issue 1 (4-2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Mesquite is one of the invasive, problematic and noxious weeds and special warm and dry areas. This plant in recent years due to high resistance to drought stress level in the vast agricultural lands and orchards spread. Management so it is very important. The following studies were conducted in plant protection of weed research Department Research Institute of during the years 2010: 1- Effect of constant temperature on germination that including 5, 10, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40° C independent dark and independent light conditions 2- Effect of temperature fluctuations on seed germination: 0/10, 10/20 and 20/30° C 3- Effect of planting depth seed on seed germhnation. All experiments were conducted with 4 replications. mesquite seeds showed no dormancy when detachment from mother plant. Seed germination was strongly influenced by temperature. Light did not play a crucial role on seed germination of this weed. Therefore mesquite seeds were not photoblastic and temperature fluctuations did not increase seed germination of mesquite. The above characteristics are very important in making mesquite an invasive weed. Having precise information of these traits enables us to a better management and control of this troublesome weed.
Keyword: Prosopis farcta, seed germination, seed dormancy, constant and fluctuating temperature, planting depth.
