ANESTHETIC RELEASE OF SEED DORMANCY—AN OVERVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT Anesthetic-type compounds enhance the germination of dormant seeds of several plant species. The most effective compounds are ethanol, ethyl ether, and chloroform, which are used either in aqueous solutions or as vapors. They interact strongly with phytochrome in promotion of seed germination by light. The activities of the compounds are considered to arise from influences on the seed membranes.