Effect of sowing depth and soil conditions on the germination of Digitaria eriantha subsp. eriantha (=D. smutsii).

Abstract

The viability of D. eriantha subsp. eriantha (=D. smutsii) seed is generally experienced to be very low, which often results in poor establishment in this grass. The effect of different external factors on the germination of this species was investigated. Results indicated that sowing depth had no significant effect on germination, while a high soil moisture status induced better germination. Seed also germinated better in soil with a high clay content (31,4%) and a considerable level of compaction. Further investigation also revealed that seed might be left intact for a relatively long period, of at least 49 days, in soil (regardless the moisture content) and that it will still germinate successfully after a second wetting.

Keywords: afrikaans; digitaria eriantha; establishment; germination; grass; grasses; moisture content; potchefstroom district; seed; soil moisture; south africa; viability