The effects of salinity, acidity, light and temperature on the germination of seeds of cardón (Pachycereus pringlei(S. Wats.) Britton & Rose, Cactaceae)

The germination ofPachycereus pringleiseeds was evaluated for salinity stress and after acid and temperature treatments. A negative response to saline environments on seed germination was observed. However, seeds that had been exposed to 0•2 and 0•3 NaCl were able to germinate in distilled water. Seeds treated for 3 min with 0•25 to 0•75 HCl showed increased germination. Seeds did not show any specific requirement for light quality or dark conditions and were not affected by UV-light exposure. Seeds were able to germinate after exposure to temperatures of −50 to 70°C; however, a long exposure (22 days) at 70°C prevented germination.