Quadratic Response Surface Analysis of Seed-Germination Trials

Abstract

Quadratic response surface analysis was applied to data of seed germination in relation to temperature. Analysis of these data is the comparing of several levels of quantitative factors. In such situations, multiple-comparison procedures, such as Duncan's multiple range test, are inappropriate. The data were the germination percentages of four species at 55 constant or alternating day and night temperature regimes. A quadratic response surface was developed for each species using multiple-regression techniques. Estimated germination values and their confidence limits were derived from the quadratic response surface of each species for each cold-period temperature through a series of warm-period temperatures. Many parameters were synthesized from the response surfaces to evaluate germination of the four species in relation to temperature. These comparisons form a statistically valid basis from which to select the most adapted plant species and predict the best time for planting or applying weed-control treatments.