Cotton grass (Eriophorum vaginatum) germination requirements and colonizing potential in the Arctic

摘要

Germination requirements of cotton grass (Eriophorum vaginatumL.) were investigated to determine its potential for reseeding disturbed areas of the arctic tundra. Maximum seed production was 15.7ensp;kg/ha, although production and viability varied widely. There was no seed dormancy and temperatures of 25ndash;30 deg;C produced maximum germination rates. A light treatment enhanced germination but was not required. Cotton grass seed germinated under less favorable moisture conditions than several other native grasses that strongly invade disturbed arctic sites. Loss of viability during storage under room conditions was high for the first 10 months, yet 27.6ndash;52.5 of the seed remained viable at 19 months. The role that this species could play in revegetation is discussed.