Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the germination characteristics of Lathyrus japonicus Willd. so as to use of this species for landscape in coastal areas and to conserve the species.
L. japonicus demonstrated hard-seed dormancy. Less than 9 % of the untreated seeds germinated at any temperature regime tested. Soaking with 96% sulphuric acid caused holing and cracking of the seed coat and sulphuric treatment could break hard-seed dormancy. Soaking in sulphuric acid for 40 min. allowed over 90% germination percentages at 10-20°C, 30 days after sowing. While both the germination percentage and rate were reduced at 25-30°C. The sulphuric treated seeds dry stored at 3°C, dry at room temperature and in under room conditions and temperatures could keep their initial germination ability for at least one year. In a soil cover experiment with sand from native stands, germination of 80 % was obtained even in 6cm of soil cover 25 days after sowing.
