Factors Influencing the Emergence of Calabrese and Carrot Seedlings in the Field

Abstract

SummaryCalabrese and carrot seeds were used in three experiments to investigate the effects of soil factors on germination and seedling emergence, and on seed survival in the soil. Although the results for carrot were less definite than for calabrese the evidence from both species suggested that the seeds were able to survive and germinate in the soil, but pre-emergence losses were due to various biotic and physical factors operating on the seedlings after germinating but before emergence, carrot being more susceptible than calabrese to these factors. The implications for improving seedling emergence and for testing seed vigour are discussed.