Germination, growth and development of Bulnesia chilensis Gay under different pregerminative treatments

Abstract

Bulnesia chilensis Gay (Zygophyllaceae) is an endemic shrub from the Atacama and Coquimbo regions, the only member of the genus in Chilean flora. Despite its importance for the development of conservation actions, there are no reports on its propagation by seeds. The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the germination response, growth, development, and survival of B. chilensis under different pregerminative treatments. To accomplish this objective, 12 treatments were carried out, which included chemical and mechanical scarification, as well as methods of soaking, disinfection and washing of the seeds. Treatments consisted of 5 replicates of 15 seeds were established at 20°C and 12:12 photoperiod. The final percentage and the germination rate were calculated, as well as aerial and root biomass of the seedlings emerged per treatment. At 2 months post-transplantation, height, phenological state and survival of the plants obtained were determined. Although the use of techniques such as chemical and mechanical scarification (micropyle cutting of the seeds) favors germination, they generate seedlings with less aerial and root growth, affecting their subsequent survival. On the other hand, with the use of simple treatments such as washing the seeds and soaking them in water with disinfection, it is possible to obtain about 80% germination, favoring the subsequent plant survival and growth. It is expected to improve the production practice of this species, especially focused on its use in restoration programs.