Observations on autotoxic effects on seed germination and seedling growth in Cirsium palustre from a spring area in Jutland, Denmark

Ethanol extracts from fresh leaves of Cirsium palustre (L.) Scop. were tested for inhibitory effects on the germination of own seeds, and dried leaves were ground and incorporated in soil to determine if growth of own seedlings was affected. Leaf extracts strongly inhibited seed germination, and leaf residues seedling growth. Inhibition was apparently not mediated by effects on pH or by nutrient deficiency.