Germination protocols

The aim of a seed bank is to preserve the accessions (seed samples) in good condition, thus maintaining unchanged their germination ability. These seeds should convert into adult plants with ability to produce new seeds.

The most suitable condition for each type of seed to germinate is elucidated from a number of germination trials in the laboratory. At this point, the data and observations gathered together in the specific files should enable us to anticipate which are the best environmental parameters (light, temperature, humidity, aeration, culture medium, etc) for germination, in order to proceed with the design and validation of the final germination protocol.

The conditions outlined in the germination protocol limit the loss of valuable plant material and represent a solid launchpad from which to manage a regeneration scheme for each species in the nursery. Therefore, germination protocols become an essential tool in the study of the species and their conservation both in situ and ex situ.

Photo: (left, up) Centaurea tauromenitana (inflorescence); placing of the seeds in a Petri dish for a germination test; procedure of seed germination; (left, below) Phoenix theophrasti, radicle development and seedcoat rupture; Centaurea tauromenitana, seedlings; repotting of plants in nursery (© 2005 Pietro Pavone - DBUC; MCarmen Martinell - IJBB; Millennium Seed Bank; C.Fournaraki - MAICh; CBNMP).