Germinating seeds of:<i>Lesquerella perforata</i>and<i>stonensis:</i>substrate effects and mucilage production

Abstract

Seeds of the rare annuals <i>Lesquerella perforata</i> Rollins and <i>L. stonensis</i> Rollins (Brassicaceae) germinated to higher percentages on topsoil and filter paper than on masonry sand and play sand. In addition, mucilage production was consistently less on topsoil than on the 2 types of sands. An increase in mucilage thickness was correlated with a reduction in germination. Although mucilage production has been observed under laboratory conditions, it has not been observed in nature. We recommend germinating seeds of both <i>Lesquerella</i> species on topsoil or filter paper for best results.