Qi, Q., Hong-Feng, C., Fu-Wu, X., Dong-Ming, L., Xiao-Gai, H. SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. 2009, 37(1): 70-78

ABSTRACT: The monotypic family Bretschneideraceae comprises only Bretschneidera sinensis Hemsl with a sparse distribution ranging from south western China to northern Vietnam as a Tertiary relict tree. B. sinensis is also included in the China Plant Red Data Book as a rare plant. Seed germination. seedling emergence and translocation were investigated in this paper to review some of the germination and reintroduction requirements for effective conservation of B. sinensis. Results showed that aril removal and surface sterilization of seeds were necessary for the control of decay fungi pre-chilling treatment (4-5 degrees C) or imbedding, in wet sand (10-15% MC) could partly released shallow seed dormancy: the optimal temperature for seed germination was 25 degrees C: light played a positive role in seed germination. Seeds sowed at the depth of 2 cm in sandy soil gave maximum seedling emergence, and deeper planting significantly decreased germination. The germination percentage could also be highly enhanced by in vitro germination.