Correlations between the Germination Capacity and Selected Attributes of European Larch Seeds (Larix Decidua Mill.)

The critical transport velocity, basic dimensions (thickness, width and length), the angle of sliding friction and weight of European larch seeds from three batches were determined. The values of shape factors, cross-sectional area, volume and density were calculated for all seeds. The seeds were germinated, and germination time was determined. The investigated attributes were compared by single classification analysis of variance and correlation analysis. The germination capacity of seeds from the same stand varied between harvest years, and germination time was most highly correlated with critical transport velocity and density. The lightest seeds should be separated from the batch to improve germination capacity, and seeds of the heaviest fractions should be used to promote even germination.