Reprinted by kind permission of the publishers of Seed Science and Technology: Treatment of Eucalyptus Seed to Maximise Germination

Abstract

An abundant and diverse mycoflora was found on the seed surface of Eucalyptus cloeziana, E. fastigata, E. fraxinoides, E. grandis, E. macarthurii and E. radiata var. australiana. The fungi inhibited germination in species with high germinative energy. Hot water treatments (50°C), surface treatments (10% sodium hypochlorite and 33,3% hydrogen peroxide) and fungicidal application (Captan) restricted fungal development and increased germinative capacity. Internal dormancy restricted germination in all species. Stratification and polyethylene glycol treatment reduced dormancy and enhanced germinative capacity.