Abstract
Abstract The focus of this study was on seed germination and seedling growth of Pterocactus tuberosus, an endemic cactus inhabiting the Monte desert of Argentina, which possesses unusual winged seeds and geophytic habit. We evaluated the effects of water availability, temperature, and light on germination, and the influence of soil moisture on seedling growth. The effects of water potential were examined using 0, −0.1, −0.4, −0.7, and −1.0 MPa solutions. Temperature treatments included 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 20/10, 25/15, and 30/20 °C. To assess photoblastism, seeds were exposed to light or continuous darkness. Total germination, weighted germination percentages, and mean germination times were calculated. Plant size and biomass of 1- and 6-wk-old seedlings were determined under high, moderate, and low watering frequency treatments. Results showed that decreasing water potential affected germination, which was about 80% at 0 and −0.1 MPa, and then, decreased to almost complete inhibition at ≤ −0.7 MPa. R...
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