Evaluation of Three Growth Curve Models for Germination Data Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Polynomial, monomolecular, logistic, and Gompertz growth curves were evaluated for their suitability as mathematical models for germination data. Germination of hulled or leached creosote bush [ Larrea tridentata (DC.) Cov.] mericarps were used in the evaluation. The Gompertz model gave the best fit. Germination curves and germination rate curves gave similar patterns of response to results obtained by other methods, which suggests the Gompertz model may have application in germination data analysis. Hulling improved germination over leaching intact mericarps. Nine hours was the optimum leaching duration for intact mericarps.