Dynamics of Yellow Starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis) Achenes in Field and Laboratory

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Abstract
Studies were conducted to compare changes in germinability and/or viability of yellow starthistle achenes buried (in packets) in soil or stored dry in the laboratory, and to determine the rate of achene depletion from a soil seed bank. In one study, after 72 mo, 0 to 96% germinable achenes remained in packets buried 5 cm deep, and a mean above 99% after dry storage. In another study, total live (germinable plus viable) achenes declined from 100% at harvest to 77.6% after 24 mo of burial. Germinable pappus-bearing achenes remaining in packets increased with depth of burial. After 12 mo of burial, maximum survival of achenes occurred at depths of 5 cm or more. The density of yellow starthistle achenes and seedlings in a natural soil seed bank declined, when achene rain was prevented, to 3.9 and 1.1% of initial density, respectively, after 36 mo. Decline was attributed primarily to seedling emergence and achene death. Achene density in the upper 2.5 cm of soil appeared to be a good predictor of seedling emergence after autumn rains.