EVALUATION OF THE QUALITY OF SEEDS OF WILD HERBACEOUS PLANTS

Based on the analysis of the germination results and the nature of seeds germination of the wild flora of Stavropol steppes, an assessment of the quality of seeds by groups was carried out. The study of seed quality was based on such characteristic signs of seed germination as: the average germination ability of seeds, the percentage of germinated seeds on the fifth day, the percentage of germinated seeds on the tenth day, the term of seed germination. Germination ability and the nature of seed germination were determined in laboratory conditions. Mature seeds of 39 species were germinated (at a temperature of 20‒22 °C) in Petri dishes (25 seeds each) in fourfold repetition. The purpose of the work is to assess the quality of seeds of wild herbaceous plants by constructing a numerical index based on the results of germination ability and the nature of seed germination. The generalized Harrington function is used to construct a generalized numerical indicator. The measurements were carried out in time intervals of 0 and 6 months. It was revealed that the freshly harvested seeds (0 months), being at rest, could not overcome the set parameters and showed weak germination or did not rise at all. During storage (6 months), the germination ability and germination pattern of seeds of wild plant species have changed. Evaluation of the seed quality of wild herbaceous plants by analysis showed a clear division of seeds into five groups. Most of the seeds (Bromopsis inermis, B. riparia, Festuca regeliana, Thymus marschallianus, Onobrychis arenaria, etc.), being in a state of shallow physiological rest, overcame this condition and showed excellent, good or satisfactory seed germination results. The obtained research results make it possible to rationally approach the reproduction of wild flora species to create a collection fund in botanical gardens or to carry out reintroduction activities in order to preserve their populations.

germination, wild plants, seed quality, generalized numerical indicator, storage period, plant community