Skip to main content
Protocol

Physaria gordonii

Overview

Genus

Physaria
Family

Brassicaceae
Synonyms
Common names
gordon bladderpod, Gordon's bladderpod

    Purity

    Purity working weight 2 g
    Other species (OSD)/Noxious working weight 20 g
    ISTA PSD
    AOSA PSU

    Germination and dormancy breaking method

    About this Method

    Applicable for:

    Media Agar or paper: top of blotters in tight moisture containing box
    Moistened with H2O normal moisture level
    Additional dormancy breaking process Not needed
    Germination Temperature 20°C
    Day/Night Temperature 8 and 16 °C
    Hours Light/Dark 8 and 16 °C
    Days in warm 14 days

    No images found.

    Seedling evaluation

    Normal Seedlings

    BRASSICACEAE (Seedling type E; Seedling Group A-2-1-1-1 adapted from ISTA):

    Dicotyledons with epigeal germination without epicotyl elongation; the primary root is essential. Food reserves are contained in the cotyledons.

    Normal seedlings: all essential structures are normal, as detailed in the following:

    • The primary root is intact or shows acceptable defects (discolored or necrotic spots, healed cracks and splits, superficial cracks and splits not affecting the conducting tissues)
    • The hypocotyl is intact or shows acceptable defects (discolored or necrotic spots, healed cracks and splits, superficial cracks and splits not affecting the conducting tissues, loose twists)
    • The terminal bud and surrounding tissue (usually not visible) is intact
    • The cotyledons are intact or show acceptable defects (up to 50% of tissue not functioning normally, only one (intact) cotyledon, three cotyledons)

    seedling, seedlings

    • Seedling. A young plant developing from the embryo of a seed. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    epigeal, epigeal germination

    • Epigeal. Cotyledons borne above the ground after germination (see hypogeal). Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    • Epigeal germination. A type of germination in which cotyledons are carried above soil level by the elongating hypocotyl (see hypogeal germination). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    epicotyl, epicotyls

    • Epicotyl. In Dicotyledons and gymnosperms, the epicotyl includes all seedling structures above the cotyledons. In species with epigeal germination (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris), the epicotyl, cotyledons and part of the hypocotyl emerge from the soil. In species with hypogeal germination (e.g. Pisum sativum), only the epicotyl emerges, carrying the first foliage leaves above the soil surface. In these species, the epicotyl also bears one or more scale leaves. Dormant meristematic buds in the axils of these scale leaves become active if there is damage to the terminal bud. The conducting tissue of the epicotyl transfers water and nutrients from the hypocotyl and cotyledons to the leaves and terminal bud above. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Epicotyl. The stem of the embryo or young seedling above the cotyledons. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    primary root

    • Primary root. The root that develops directly from the hypocotyl of the embryo. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    cotyledon, cotyledons

    • Cotyledon. The first leaf or pair of leaves of an embryo and seedling, often a food-storage organ. The cotyledons may remain in the seed (hypogeal germination) or emerge to become the first photosynthetic organs (epigeal germination). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010.

    • Cotyledons. The cotyledons are the storage structures of the embryo. They may be only a small portion of the seed in species with endosperm, perisperm or female gametophyte storage tissue, or they may occupy a large portion of the embryo when they are the primary storage tissue (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris). In epigeal species, the cotyledons may grow quite large and become the first photosynthetic structures of the young plant. In hypogeal species the primary function of the cotyledons is to provide nutrients to the growing seedling until it can produce its own nutrients. In most species the cotyledons shrivel and drop off as their reserves are depleted. In a few species (e.g. Cucurbita pepo, pumpkin) the cotyledons may persist well beyond the seedling stage of growth. In the monocotyledons the cotyledon absorbs nutrients from the endosperm and transfers them to the growing seedling. In the Poaceae the cotyledon is called the scutellum. It is in close proximity to the endosperm and is laterally attached to the embryo axis. In Allium (Liliaceae) the cotyledon tip remains embedded in the endosperm to absorb nutrients but the cotyledon also emerges from the soil (i.e. germination is epigeal) and becomes photosynthetic. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Cotyledon. The first leaves of the embryo that serve for food digestion and food storage. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    essential structure, essential structures

    • Essential structure. Structure which is critical for continued development of the seedling into a plant. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual. 2018

    • Essential structure. Any seedling structure that must be considered when classifying a seedling as either normal or abnormal. In general, an essential structure is one that is critical for successful establishment and development of a seedling into a plant. Structure which is critical for continued development of the seedling into a plant. Baalbaki, R.Z. Germination & Dormancy. TWS Website. 2020

    normal seedling, normal

    • Normal seedling. A seedling with all essential structures present and capable of developing into a plant under favorable conditions; certain defects may be present if they are judged to be not so severe as to impede further development of the plant (see abnormal seedling). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    root, roots

    • Root. In dicotyledons and gymnosperms, the root system serves three major functions: (1) to anchor the plant in the soil, (2) to absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and (3) to conduct the water and salts to the hypocotyl, cotyledons and epicotyl. The embryonic root, or radicle, is located at the basal end of the embryo and is usually the first seedling structure to rupture the testa. After emergence it is referred to as the primary root. The primary root elongates rapidly and soon numerous root hairs develop, greatly increasing the absorbing surface of the roots. As the seedling continues to grow, secondary roots develop from the primary root and from other secondary roots. Roots may also emerge from other structures (e.g. the hypocotyl) and are referred to as adventitious roots. As in the dicotyledons, the monocotyledon root system serves to anchor the plant in soil, absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and to conduct the water and salts to the growing seedling. The embryonic root, or radicle, is situated at the basal end of the embryo and, in the case of the Poaceae, its apex is covered by the coleorhiza. After the radicle emerges it is referred to as the primary root. In some species of the Poaceae (e.g. Triticum) the primary root is indistinguishable from the other roots that develop from the scutellar node region and hence all of these are referred to as seminal roots. Roots that develop from structures above the scutellar or cotyledonary node are called adventitious roots. Secondary roots may develop from seminal and adventitious roots.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Root. A portion of a higher plant bearing neither leaves nor reproductive organs, usually underground. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    conducting tissues

    • Conducting tissues. Tissues that transport water and dissolved minerals from the root to the other plant structures, and foods from where they are manufactured (e.g., leaves) to where they are needed for growth or storage. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    hypocotyl

    • Hypocotyl. The portion of the seedling axis between the root and the cotyledons is the hypocotyl. The hypocotyl is a transition structure for the transport of water and dissolved salts from the roots to the epicotyl. When a seed with epigeal germination (see section 2.5 for definitions of epigeal and hypogeal germination) is planted in moist soil, the hypocotyl elongates carrying the cotyledons above the soil surface.

      In monocotyledons the hypocotyl is usually not discernible as a separate structure. The mesocotyl is the part of the seedling axis between the scutellum and the base of the coleoptile. In some species (e.g. Zea mays) the elongation of the mesocotyl may be considerable. In others (e.g. Triticum aestivum) the elongation may be imperceptible. Elongation of the mesocotyl is suppressed by light after the coleoptile emerges from the soil.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Hypocotyl. That portion of the embryo stem below the cotyledons. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    terminal bud

    • Terminal bud. The shoot apex enveloped by several more or less differentiated leaves. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Terminal bud. The terminal bud occupies the tip of the epicotyl and consists of the apical meristem surrounded and protected by the developing leaves.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    cotyledon, cotyledons

    • Cotyledon. The first leaf or pair of leaves of an embryo and seedling, often a food-storage organ. The cotyledons may remain in the seed (hypogeal germination) or emerge to become the first photosynthetic organs (epigeal germination). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010.

    • Cotyledons. The cotyledons are the storage structures of the embryo. They may be only a small portion of the seed in species with endosperm, perisperm or female gametophyte storage tissue, or they may occupy a large portion of the embryo when they are the primary storage tissue (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris). In epigeal species, the cotyledons may grow quite large and become the first photosynthetic structures of the young plant. In hypogeal species the primary function of the cotyledons is to provide nutrients to the growing seedling until it can produce its own nutrients. In most species the cotyledons shrivel and drop off as their reserves are depleted. In a few species (e.g. Cucurbita pepo, pumpkin) the cotyledons may persist well beyond the seedling stage of growth. In the monocotyledons the cotyledon absorbs nutrients from the endosperm and transfers them to the growing seedling. In the Poaceae the cotyledon is called the scutellum. It is in close proximity to the endosperm and is laterally attached to the embryo axis. In Allium (Liliaceae) the cotyledon tip remains embedded in the endosperm to absorb nutrients but the cotyledon also emerges from the soil (i.e. germination is epigeal) and becomes photosynthetic. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Cotyledon. The first leaves of the embryo that serve for food digestion and food storage. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    Abnormal Seedlings

    Abnormal seedlings: one or more of the essential structures are abnormal, as detailed in the following:

    • The seedling is deformed, fractured, the cotyledons emerge before the primary root from the seed coat, consists of fused twin seedlings, is yellow or white, is spindly, is glassy, or is decayed as a result of primary infection
    • The primary root is stunted or stubby, retarded, missing, broken, split from the tip, trapped in the seed coat (unless the root tip has found its way out of the seed coat by the end of the test), shows negative geotropism, is constricted, spindly, glassy, or decayed as a result of primary infection. A seedling is classified as abnormal if the primary root is defective, even if secondary roots have developed.
    • The hypocotyl is too short and thick, deeply cracked and broken (affecting the conducting tissue), split right through, missing, bent over or forming a loop, tightly twisted or forming a spiral, constricted, spindly, glassy, or decayed as a result of primary infection
    • The terminal bud (usually not visible) is defective
    • The cotyledons are defective to the extent that less than 50% of the original tissue is functioning normally, are swollen or curled, deformed, broken or otherwise damaged, separate or missing, discolored or necrotic, glassy, or decayed as a result of primary infection. Damage or decay of the cotyledons at the point of attachment to the seedling axis or near the terminal bud render a seedling abnormal – irrespective of the 50% rule.

    essential structure, essential structures

    • Essential structure. Structure which is critical for continued development of the seedling into a plant. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual. 2018

    • Essential structure. Any seedling structure that must be considered when classifying a seedling as either normal or abnormal. In general, an essential structure is one that is critical for successful establishment and development of a seedling into a plant. Structure which is critical for continued development of the seedling into a plant. Baalbaki, R.Z. Germination & Dormancy. TWS Website. 2020

    abnormal seedling, abnormal

    • Abnormal seedling. A seedling that does not have all the essential structures or is damaged, deformed or decayed to such an extent that normal development is prevented (see normal seedling). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    seedling, seedlings

    • Seedling. A young plant developing from the embryo of a seed. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    cotyledon, cotyledons

    • Cotyledon. The first leaf or pair of leaves of an embryo and seedling, often a food-storage organ. The cotyledons may remain in the seed (hypogeal germination) or emerge to become the first photosynthetic organs (epigeal germination). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010.

    • Cotyledons. The cotyledons are the storage structures of the embryo. They may be only a small portion of the seed in species with endosperm, perisperm or female gametophyte storage tissue, or they may occupy a large portion of the embryo when they are the primary storage tissue (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris). In epigeal species, the cotyledons may grow quite large and become the first photosynthetic structures of the young plant. In hypogeal species the primary function of the cotyledons is to provide nutrients to the growing seedling until it can produce its own nutrients. In most species the cotyledons shrivel and drop off as their reserves are depleted. In a few species (e.g. Cucurbita pepo, pumpkin) the cotyledons may persist well beyond the seedling stage of growth. In the monocotyledons the cotyledon absorbs nutrients from the endosperm and transfers them to the growing seedling. In the Poaceae the cotyledon is called the scutellum. It is in close proximity to the endosperm and is laterally attached to the embryo axis. In Allium (Liliaceae) the cotyledon tip remains embedded in the endosperm to absorb nutrients but the cotyledon also emerges from the soil (i.e. germination is epigeal) and becomes photosynthetic. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Cotyledon. The first leaves of the embryo that serve for food digestion and food storage. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    primary root

    • Primary root. The root that develops directly from the hypocotyl of the embryo. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    seed, seeds

    • Seed. The part of a plant which is able to develop into a new plant. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Seed. Botanically, a seed is a mature fertilized ovule containing an embryonic plant; usually it has nutrient storage tissue and is surrounded by a protective coat, the testa. This structure is a "true seed"; however, the ovules of many species have additional structures of the mother plant attached or fused to the seed coat. For example, the "seed" of Triticum aestivum (wheat) is botanically a fruit because the pericarp (ovary wall) is fused with the seed coat. In these rules the term "seed" will be used in the agronomic sense (i.e. the true seed plus any accessory structures that may be attached when it is planted in the field; see section 3.2 of the AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds Vol. 1). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Seed. The ripened ovule, enclosing the rudimentary plant and food necessary for its germination. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    seedling, seedlings

    • Seedling. A young plant developing from the embryo of a seed. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    spindly

    • Spindly. Disproportionately thin relative to length; thread-like in appearance. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    primary infection

    • Primary infection. Infection caused by disease organisms present and active in the seed and/or seedling itself. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual, 2018 

    root, roots

    • Root. In dicotyledons and gymnosperms, the root system serves three major functions: (1) to anchor the plant in the soil, (2) to absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and (3) to conduct the water and salts to the hypocotyl, cotyledons and epicotyl. The embryonic root, or radicle, is located at the basal end of the embryo and is usually the first seedling structure to rupture the testa. After emergence it is referred to as the primary root. The primary root elongates rapidly and soon numerous root hairs develop, greatly increasing the absorbing surface of the roots. As the seedling continues to grow, secondary roots develop from the primary root and from other secondary roots. Roots may also emerge from other structures (e.g. the hypocotyl) and are referred to as adventitious roots. As in the dicotyledons, the monocotyledon root system serves to anchor the plant in soil, absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and to conduct the water and salts to the growing seedling. The embryonic root, or radicle, is situated at the basal end of the embryo and, in the case of the Poaceae, its apex is covered by the coleorhiza. After the radicle emerges it is referred to as the primary root. In some species of the Poaceae (e.g. Triticum) the primary root is indistinguishable from the other roots that develop from the scutellar node region and hence all of these are referred to as seminal roots. Roots that develop from structures above the scutellar or cotyledonary node are called adventitious roots. Secondary roots may develop from seminal and adventitious roots.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Root. A portion of a higher plant bearing neither leaves nor reproductive organs, usually underground. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    root tip, root tips

    • Root tip. Root tips will grow into tap roots or fibrous roots. A root tip is protected by a root cap. Within a root tip, cell: differentiation, actively dividing and increasing in length, depending on the zone of the root tip.

    negative geotropism

    • Negative geotropism. Negative geotropism is caused by a physiological disorder usually characterized by root structures that grow upward. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    infection

    • Infection. Entrance and spread of disease organisms in living material (e.g., seedling structures) often causing disease symptoms and decay. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    root, roots

    • Root. In dicotyledons and gymnosperms, the root system serves three major functions: (1) to anchor the plant in the soil, (2) to absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and (3) to conduct the water and salts to the hypocotyl, cotyledons and epicotyl. The embryonic root, or radicle, is located at the basal end of the embryo and is usually the first seedling structure to rupture the testa. After emergence it is referred to as the primary root. The primary root elongates rapidly and soon numerous root hairs develop, greatly increasing the absorbing surface of the roots. As the seedling continues to grow, secondary roots develop from the primary root and from other secondary roots. Roots may also emerge from other structures (e.g. the hypocotyl) and are referred to as adventitious roots. As in the dicotyledons, the monocotyledon root system serves to anchor the plant in soil, absorb water and dissolved salts from the soil and to conduct the water and salts to the growing seedling. The embryonic root, or radicle, is situated at the basal end of the embryo and, in the case of the Poaceae, its apex is covered by the coleorhiza. After the radicle emerges it is referred to as the primary root. In some species of the Poaceae (e.g. Triticum) the primary root is indistinguishable from the other roots that develop from the scutellar node region and hence all of these are referred to as seminal roots. Roots that develop from structures above the scutellar or cotyledonary node are called adventitious roots. Secondary roots may develop from seminal and adventitious roots.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Root. A portion of a higher plant bearing neither leaves nor reproductive organs, usually underground. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    hypocotyl

    • Hypocotyl. The portion of the seedling axis between the root and the cotyledons is the hypocotyl. The hypocotyl is a transition structure for the transport of water and dissolved salts from the roots to the epicotyl. When a seed with epigeal germination (see section 2.5 for definitions of epigeal and hypogeal germination) is planted in moist soil, the hypocotyl elongates carrying the cotyledons above the soil surface.

      In monocotyledons the hypocotyl is usually not discernible as a separate structure. The mesocotyl is the part of the seedling axis between the scutellum and the base of the coleoptile. In some species (e.g. Zea mays) the elongation of the mesocotyl may be considerable. In others (e.g. Triticum aestivum) the elongation may be imperceptible. Elongation of the mesocotyl is suppressed by light after the coleoptile emerges from the soil.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Hypocotyl. That portion of the embryo stem below the cotyledons. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    conducting tissues, conducting tissue

    • Conducting tissues. Tissues that transport water and dissolved minerals from the root to the other plant structures, and foods from where they are manufactured (e.g., leaves) to where they are needed for growth or storage. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    terminal bud

    • Terminal bud. The shoot apex enveloped by several more or less differentiated leaves. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Terminal bud. The terminal bud occupies the tip of the epicotyl and consists of the apical meristem surrounded and protected by the developing leaves.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    decay

    • Decay. Break-down of organic tissue, usually associated with the presence of microorganisms. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    axis

    • Axis. The central line of any organ or the support of a group of organs; the main stem of an inflorescence, especially of a panicle. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    terminal

    • Terminal. Extremity or upper bud, flower, or leaf. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    bud, buds

    • Bud. An unexpanded flower or a rudimentary leaf, stem, or branch. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    Modified Germination

    No modified germination information available.

    Tetrazolium (TZ) Test Recommendations

    Representative Genera

    Alyssum, Arabis, Brassica, Camelina, Crambe, Lepidium, Nasturtium, Raphanus, Sinapis

    General Statement: Use a 30oC (temperatures between 20oC through 40oC will work -with the higher temperature staining the seeds faster).and usually to stain seed in a 1.0% tetrazolium solution (exceptions will be provided below).

    While four hours is an adequate period to stain many species, longer periods may be necessary to assure the seeds have completed the staining process. Flexibility is key to staining seeds of wild species. Dormancy levels and lipids and other factors in the seeds can affect the length of the staining period.

    seed, seeds

    • Seed. The part of a plant which is able to develop into a new plant. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Seed. Botanically, a seed is a mature fertilized ovule containing an embryonic plant; usually it has nutrient storage tissue and is surrounded by a protective coat, the testa. This structure is a "true seed"; however, the ovules of many species have additional structures of the mother plant attached or fused to the seed coat. For example, the "seed" of Triticum aestivum (wheat) is botanically a fruit because the pericarp (ovary wall) is fused with the seed coat. In these rules the term "seed" will be used in the agronomic sense (i.e. the true seed plus any accessory structures that may be attached when it is planted in the field; see section 3.2 of the AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds Vol. 1). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Seed. The ripened ovule, enclosing the rudimentary plant and food necessary for its germination. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    seed, seeds

    • Seed. The part of a plant which is able to develop into a new plant. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Seed. Botanically, a seed is a mature fertilized ovule containing an embryonic plant; usually it has nutrient storage tissue and is surrounded by a protective coat, the testa. This structure is a "true seed"; however, the ovules of many species have additional structures of the mother plant attached or fused to the seed coat. For example, the "seed" of Triticum aestivum (wheat) is botanically a fruit because the pericarp (ovary wall) is fused with the seed coat. In these rules the term "seed" will be used in the agronomic sense (i.e. the true seed plus any accessory structures that may be attached when it is planted in the field; see section 3.2 of the AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds Vol. 1). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Seed. The ripened ovule, enclosing the rudimentary plant and food necessary for its germination. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    species

    • Species. A category of classification lower than a genus that is made up of plants which possess in common distinctive characteristics that are reproduced in their offspring. The species name included second to the genus in the scientific binomial. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    dormant seeds, dormancy

    • Dormant seeds. Viable seeds, other than hard seeds, which fail to germinate when provided the specified germination conditions for the kind of seed in question. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Dormancy. Delayed germination or growth; a condition of inactivity. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual, 2018
    Notes

    TEZ/TZ tests in the Brassicaceae can be performed by removing the embryos from their soft seed coats after a time of soaking.

    embryo, embryos

    • Embryo. The young plant enclosed in a seed. 2020 International Rules for Seed Testing (ISTA)

    • Embryo. Rudimentary plant enclosed in a seed, usually consisting of a more or less differentiated axis and attached cotyledon(s). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • The embryo. The product of one of the fusions of the angiosperm fertilization process is the embryo (the other being the endosperm). In gymnosperms the embryo is the only product of the fertilization process. Depending on the species, the embryo develops to varying degrees within the seed, becoming a 'miniature plant' by the end of the growing season. In Phaseolus vulgaris, for example, the embryo is fully developed and the radicle, hypocotyl and epicotyl with primary leaves can easily be observed. The development of the embryo in other species may be much less, with some essential structures being observed only after considerable growth of the seedling. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Embryo. A young plant before the beginning if its rapid growth. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    seed, seeds

    • Seed. The part of a plant which is able to develop into a new plant. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Seed. Botanically, a seed is a mature fertilized ovule containing an embryonic plant; usually it has nutrient storage tissue and is surrounded by a protective coat, the testa. This structure is a "true seed"; however, the ovules of many species have additional structures of the mother plant attached or fused to the seed coat. For example, the "seed" of Triticum aestivum (wheat) is botanically a fruit because the pericarp (ovary wall) is fused with the seed coat. In these rules the term "seed" will be used in the agronomic sense (i.e. the true seed plus any accessory structures that may be attached when it is planted in the field; see section 3.2 of the AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds Vol. 1). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Seed. The ripened ovule, enclosing the rudimentary plant and food necessary for its germination. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111
    Pre-Treatment

    Soak for 18 hours in water at 20°C or 5 hours in water at 30°C.
    Preparation

    Incise seed coat crosswise at one side of the outer cotyledons, avoid touching the hypocotyl and the radicle.  Remove seed coat by gently pressing.  Keep seed moist during the preparation. 

    incise

    • Incise. Cut deeply. TWS

    seed, seeds

    • Seed. The part of a plant which is able to develop into a new plant. ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • Seed. Botanically, a seed is a mature fertilized ovule containing an embryonic plant; usually it has nutrient storage tissue and is surrounded by a protective coat, the testa. This structure is a "true seed"; however, the ovules of many species have additional structures of the mother plant attached or fused to the seed coat. For example, the "seed" of Triticum aestivum (wheat) is botanically a fruit because the pericarp (ovary wall) is fused with the seed coat. In these rules the term "seed" will be used in the agronomic sense (i.e. the true seed plus any accessory structures that may be attached when it is planted in the field; see section 3.2 of the AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds Vol. 1). Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Seed. The ripened ovule, enclosing the rudimentary plant and food necessary for its germination. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    crosswise

    • Crosswise. As in diagonally. In a line or direction running from corner to corner. TWS

    cotyledon, cotyledons

    • Cotyledon. The first leaf or pair of leaves of an embryo and seedling, often a food-storage organ. The cotyledons may remain in the seed (hypogeal germination) or emerge to become the first photosynthetic organs (epigeal germination). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010.

    • Cotyledons. The cotyledons are the storage structures of the embryo. They may be only a small portion of the seed in species with endosperm, perisperm or female gametophyte storage tissue, or they may occupy a large portion of the embryo when they are the primary storage tissue (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris). In epigeal species, the cotyledons may grow quite large and become the first photosynthetic structures of the young plant. In hypogeal species the primary function of the cotyledons is to provide nutrients to the growing seedling until it can produce its own nutrients. In most species the cotyledons shrivel and drop off as their reserves are depleted. In a few species (e.g. Cucurbita pepo, pumpkin) the cotyledons may persist well beyond the seedling stage of growth. In the monocotyledons the cotyledon absorbs nutrients from the endosperm and transfers them to the growing seedling. In the Poaceae the cotyledon is called the scutellum. It is in close proximity to the endosperm and is laterally attached to the embryo axis. In Allium (Liliaceae) the cotyledon tip remains embedded in the endosperm to absorb nutrients but the cotyledon also emerges from the soil (i.e. germination is epigeal) and becomes photosynthetic. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Cotyledon. The first leaves of the embryo that serve for food digestion and food storage. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    hypocotyl

    • Hypocotyl. The portion of the seedling axis between the root and the cotyledons is the hypocotyl. The hypocotyl is a transition structure for the transport of water and dissolved salts from the roots to the epicotyl. When a seed with epigeal germination (see section 2.5 for definitions of epigeal and hypogeal germination) is planted in moist soil, the hypocotyl elongates carrying the cotyledons above the soil surface.

      In monocotyledons the hypocotyl is usually not discernible as a separate structure. The mesocotyl is the part of the seedling axis between the scutellum and the base of the coleoptile. In some species (e.g. Zea mays) the elongation of the mesocotyl may be considerable. In others (e.g. Triticum aestivum) the elongation may be imperceptible. Elongation of the mesocotyl is suppressed by light after the coleoptile emerges from the soil.  Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Hypocotyl. That portion of the embryo stem below the cotyledons. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    radicle, radicles

    • Radicle. The initial root of the embryo, which develops into the primary root after emergence through the testa during germination. ISTA Handbook of Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary, 3rd Edition, 2010

    • Radicle. The part of an embro giving rise to the root system of a plant. Compare to plumule. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual, 2018

    • Radicle. The lower portion of the hypocotyl which grows into the primary root. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    •  Radicles. Spring from the root; clustered at the base of the stem. TWS
    Staining

    1.0% TEZ/TZ solution at 30°C for 18 hours.
    Evaluation

    Non-viable if radicle, radicle attachment, or cotyledons are left unstained and if yellow color of embryo remains apparent.

    viable

    • Viable. Alive. Seed viability indicates that a seed contains structures and substances including enzyme systems that give it the capacity to germinate under favorable conditions in the absence of dormancy.  SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual, 2018 

    radicle, radicles

    • Radicle. The initial root of the embryo, which develops into the primary root after emergence through the testa during germination. ISTA Handbook of Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary, 3rd Edition, 2010

    • Radicle. The part of an embro giving rise to the root system of a plant. Compare to plumule. SCST Seed Technologist Training Manual, 2018

    • Radicle. The lower portion of the hypocotyl which grows into the primary root. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    •  Radicles. Spring from the root; clustered at the base of the stem. TWS

    cotyledon, cotyledons

    • Cotyledon. The first leaf or pair of leaves of an embryo and seedling, often a food-storage organ. The cotyledons may remain in the seed (hypogeal germination) or emerge to become the first photosynthetic organs (epigeal germination). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010.

    • Cotyledons. The cotyledons are the storage structures of the embryo. They may be only a small portion of the seed in species with endosperm, perisperm or female gametophyte storage tissue, or they may occupy a large portion of the embryo when they are the primary storage tissue (e.g. Phaseolus vulgaris). In epigeal species, the cotyledons may grow quite large and become the first photosynthetic structures of the young plant. In hypogeal species the primary function of the cotyledons is to provide nutrients to the growing seedling until it can produce its own nutrients. In most species the cotyledons shrivel and drop off as their reserves are depleted. In a few species (e.g. Cucurbita pepo, pumpkin) the cotyledons may persist well beyond the seedling stage of growth. In the monocotyledons the cotyledon absorbs nutrients from the endosperm and transfers them to the growing seedling. In the Poaceae the cotyledon is called the scutellum. It is in close proximity to the endosperm and is laterally attached to the embryo axis. In Allium (Liliaceae) the cotyledon tip remains embedded in the endosperm to absorb nutrients but the cotyledon also emerges from the soil (i.e. germination is epigeal) and becomes photosynthetic. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Cotyledon. The first leaves of the embryo that serve for food digestion and food storage. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    embryo, embryos

    • Embryo. The young plant enclosed in a seed. 2020 International Rules for Seed Testing (ISTA)

    • Embryo. Rudimentary plant enclosed in a seed, usually consisting of a more or less differentiated axis and attached cotyledon(s). ISTA Handbook on Pure Seed Definitions, Glossary. 3rd Edition 2010

    • The embryo. The product of one of the fusions of the angiosperm fertilization process is the embryo (the other being the endosperm). In gymnosperms the embryo is the only product of the fertilization process. Depending on the species, the embryo develops to varying degrees within the seed, becoming a 'miniature plant' by the end of the growing season. In Phaseolus vulgaris, for example, the embryo is fully developed and the radicle, hypocotyl and epicotyl with primary leaves can easily be observed. The development of the embryo in other species may be much less, with some essential structures being observed only after considerable growth of the seedling. Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Seed Testing, Volume 4, 2019

    • Embryo. A young plant before the beginning if its rapid growth. Fenwick, J.R. revised 1995. Laboratory Manual for General Crops- Glossary. Unpublished class notes. Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Pages 104-111

    No images found.

    Using Search Engine

    The search engine has been built to help you find a protocol for a species. If you know the current scientific name or a synonym of a species you would like to find, start typing the name into the search engine. Try it. You can also search by using the common name of a species. If you know the plant family of a species, but are not sure of the name, enter the family name and you may be able to find the species from a list of species in the family list. If you are looking for a species, and it is not on the website, please let us know of your interest, and we will see if we can find data to help us build a protocol.

    Using a Protocol

    The protocols include nomenclature links and images of the seed. The purity section includes the pure seed definitions and the recommended working weights for the purity test as well as the other species or noxious seed exam. Recommended germination protocols give directions on media type, kind of moisture, if light is needed, days to test and in many cases the recommended dormancy breaking methodologies. When available, pictures of normal and abnormal seedlings will be included. A tetrazolium testing protocol will provide imbibition recommendations, seed preparation for tetrazolium staining and how to evaluate viability. When available, images of seed with normal staining patterns will be included.