The Effect of Sulfuric Acid Scarification on Germination Rate and Plant Height in Baptisia alba Macrophylla

Ethan C. Gooch
Dr. Kelly A. Nelson (University of Missouri ) and Dr. Michael Seipel, Faculty Mentors

There has been an increasing interest in restoring native prairies; however, success of has been limited due to poor stand establishment and interference with annual weeds. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of sulfuric acid concentration and soaking duration on seed germination and plant height after germination. Seeds of Baptisia alba macrophylla were harvested locally, stored, and exposed to three concentrations (0, 0.5, and 1) of 18.76 M sulfuric acid for 0, 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, or 24 h and planted in 288-1.5 cm cell trays containing moisture control potting mix at 1 cm depth. Seeds not exposed to sulfuric acid had a 1% germination rate. Seeds soaked for 2 h at a full rate of sulfuric acid increased germination 23% and did not affect plant height Treatment of seed with sulfuric acid could help establish native prairies with species such as Baptisia.

Keywords: Seed germination, Acid Scarification, Indigo, native plants

Topic(s):Agricultural Science

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA