The effect of temperature on fruit set, seed set and seed germination in ‘Sonia’ × ‘Hadley’ hybrid Tea-rose crosses

Abstract

The effect of temperature on fruit set, seed set and seed germination was studied in ‘Sonia’ × ‘Hadley’ Hybrid Tea-rose crosses. ‘Sonia’ mother bushes were grown at constant temperatures (10, 14, 18, 22, 26°C) in the greenhouses of the phytotron until fruit ripening. Fruit set, fruit weight and number of seeds increased as temperature was higher. Optimum temperatures were found for days to fruit ripening (18°C), seed germination (22°C) and number of seedlings per pollinated flower (22°C). Fruit weight and number of seeds were positively correlated. For crossing and the subsequent growing of seed-bearing plants 22°C was the most favourable temperature. Effects of temperature on pollen tube growth, fertilization and seed germination are discussed.