Scarification and stratification protocols for raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) seed germination

Breeders need to know the seed germination requirements for the species under study, because sexual propagation is used to increase specific progeny.
In the genus Rubus, low germination percentages are frequently obtained and can effect seed propagation protocols.
Seeds have a hard testa, and their embryo can require a period of cold storage to overcome dormancy.
These seeds are called “double dormant” and require pre-germination treatments.
The requirements for scarification and stratification of Rubus seeds can be better defined.
The objective of this study was to test different pre-germination treatments on seeds derived from inter-cultivar crosses of Rubus idaeus. The seeds were subjected to specific concentrations of sulfuric acid (0, 5, 50, and 95%) for 30 min, before starting the process of cold storage.
To estimate the optimum period of stratification, different treatment times of 60, 90, and 120 days were tested.
The results indicated that the best treatment to scarify seeds of our R. idaeus crosses was with 95% sulfuric acid.
The best treatment for stratification was three months.

XI International Rubus and Ribes Symposium

E. Contreras, J. Grez, M. Gambardella

dormancy, breeding, seedling, sulfuric acid

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2016.1133.23