Germination characteristics of prairie dropseed, blanketflower, and hairy goldaster in response to prechill and temperature treatments

Abstract

Native plant materials centers across the United States create concentrated sources of native species seeds, cuttings, and plants that are readily available for use in restoration, landscaping, and other revegetation projects. In addition, these centers provide materials from local genetic sources that are adapted to the environmental conditions of the target site which makes them less likely to aggressively compete with, or decrease the genetic fitness of, extant native vegetation. Despite the increased desire to use native plant materials for re-vegetation, a general lack of information regarding germination and propagation requirements for many native species has restricted their usage. A better understanding of dormancy and germination patterns for these native species will make them increasingly available and affordable. As part of an effort to develop a native plant materials center for the Black Hills, three native species (Sporobolus heterolepis, Heterotheca villosa, and Gaillardia aristata) were selected to determine optimum germination conditions.

Citation

Roemmich, Aurora Rose. 2011. Germination characteristics of prairie dropseed, blanketflower, and hairy goldaster in response to prechill and temperature treatments. Brookings, SD: South Dakota State University. 58 p. Thesis.