Vaccinium delavayi is a high-value nutraceutical berry. The species is rarely cultivated, and its demand is met through wild collection. The species has striking apparency and is suitable for landscaping.
Objectives
The present study aims to investigate the effects of storage, environmental factors (i.e., light and temperature), and the application of gibberellic acid (GA3) on the seed germination of V. delavayi.
Methods
Fresh, 4, 8, and 16-month stored seeds at different storage conditions were kept in the incubators. The incubators were set at 3 different alternate temperature regimes (5/10°C, 10/20°C, and 20/30°C) in 24-h darkness (dark treatment) and/or 12 h light/12 h darkness (light treatment). Eight-month-old stored seeds were retrieved from different storage conditions and soaked in four different concentrations (0-, 500-, 1000-, and 1500- mM) of gibberellic acid (GA3) for 24 h at room temperature to test the effect of GA3 on seed germination.
Results
The species exhibits physiological seed dormancy. Wet-stored seeds kept at 4°C for 16 months exhibited the highest germination rate (37.0%), suggesting limited natural regeneration potential. The external use of GA3 significantly enhanced the germination. Seeds treated with GA3 showed a positive photoblastic response.
Conclusion
These findings provide insights for the cultivation and alleviating stress on wild populations, contributing to conservation and sustainable utilization of the species.
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