SEED GERMINATION OF AMERICAN BASSWOOD IN RELATION TO SEED MATURITY
Seed germination of American basswood collected and sown at weekly intervals during late summer 1977 increased until the 9 Sept. collection at which germination was 52%; thereafter, germination decreased. The color of the pericarp and the moisture content of the seed proved reliable indices of maturity in relation to germination. All pericarps turned greyish-brown by 9 Sept. and moisture content of the seed decreased to 16%. Germination of excised embryos occurred without delay at all stages of seed maturity. Examination of the structure of the testa by means of differential staining and light microscopy showed a high degree of cell orientation, compaction and lignification at the advanced stages of maturity.