Investigations on the Control of Lettuce Seed Germination at High Temperatures

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Abstract
The activity of sodium hypochlorite solution in relieving thermo-inhibition of germination of lettuce seed is shown to be due to its chlorine content. Results of experiments in which the pericarp, and pericarp and endosperm were removed, together with direct measurements of penetration forces, suggest that the relief of thermo-inhibition results from weakening of the pericarp by the hypochlorite. Differences between the cultivars ‘Cobham Green’ and ‘Grand Rapids’ in the contributions made by pericarp and endosperm to germination control at 35 °C are demonstrated.