Methods for the germination of beardless wildrye (Elymus triticoides Buckl.)

A 0.2% KNO3 solution is the best moistening agent to use when viability testing beardless wildrye. Germination temperatures of 15-25 and 20 C provide equal estimations of germination when light is used with the 20 C temperature. Beardless wildrye germination was equal in light and dark environments when using the 15-25 C temperature. Prechilling prior to germination extends the testing period and does not improve germination percentages. Beardless wildrye germination at 15-25 or 20 C in a light environment with 0.2% KNO3 for 35 days provides the best viability estimate of all germination methods evaluated. A 35-day germination test may not be practical. Germination for 21 days followed by tetrazolium evaluation of remaining seeds is recommended.