Study on the Treating Methods for the Hard Shells of Hylodesmum podocarpum Seeds
To increase the germination rate of Hylodesmum podocarpum hard-shell seeds, 4 methods including hot water soaking, scari-fication, grinding shells with quartz sand and microwave treatment are used for breaking the hard shells of the seeds. The results showed that hot water soaking and scarification could significantly increase the germination rate, germination potential and germination index, with optimal results achieved in the seeds soaking in 70 ℃ hot water. This treatment, which could save labor and time and is safe, simple and easy to do, is suggested to be used in practical production.