Influence of temperature and osmotic potential on germination of Allenrolfea occidentalis seeds

Allenrolfea occidentalis is the most salt-tolerant plant species in the temperate deserts of western North America, but little is known about seedbed conditions necessary for successful establishment. We investigated the influence of a wide range of constant and alternating temperatures and reduced osmotic potentials on the germination of A. occidentalis seeds. Seeds germinated readily across a wide temperature range, at greatly reduced osmotic potentials, and in a variety of saline solutions. Soil water potentials observed in the field, however, preclude germination. Alternative hypotheses for seedling recruitment are explored.