SEED GERMINATION AS AFFECTED BY SOIL TYPE AND SOIL MOISTURE

In the field an ideal combination of soil temperature and soil moisture seldom occurs. The soil moisture tension curve gives an idea of the suitability of water and air (figure 1). For example in a moist zone between pF 0.5 and 2.0 optimal germination can be affected by seed rotting or toxic material rinsed out of the seed.

Depending on the soil texture, a too high moisture tension inhibits the imbibition of the seed.

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