The Influence of Dormancy-Inducing Desiccation Treatments on the Respiration and Germination of Sorghum

Seeds of sorghum (Sorghum vulgare Pers.) dried in a forced-air dryer from an initial moisture content of 12 percent to either 10 percent or 7 percent exhibited physiological dormancy. Dormancy was more marked in seeds dried to 7 percent than to 10 percent moisture, and was more pronounced in germination at 15° or 20° than at 25°C. Expression of dormancy at the lower temperatures was influenced decidedly by the four germination media (paper towels, blotters, sand, and soil). Percent dormancy was lowest in towels and highest in soil. Osmotic tension is suggested to be a factor influencing dormancy in these media. Dormancy was relieved by cutting the integumentary membrane or by rehydration of dried seeds. Respiration rates were lower and respiratory quotients higher in dormant seeds than in the controls. Differences in respiration rates were detected within 2 hours after the start of imbibition. Dormancy and differences in respiration rates appear to be associated with changes induced in the seeds by drying.