Breaking dormancy and increasing seed germination in Montpellier maple (Acer monspessulanum) and white beam (Sorbus greaca) by microbial treatment

Sowing seeds is the most common method for forest rehabilitation, for this reason, the success in sowing is very important. Sorbus greaca and Acer monspessulanum growingin Zagros and Iran-Tourani zones are important because they tolerate very harsh conditions and make plant cover. One of the most important issues in seedling production is low percent of seed germination. Finding solution for seed germination without negative environmental effect with less charge has great importance. The effects of indole acetic acid (auxin) producing bacteria, nitrate potassium and giberllic acid treatments were determined on two forest species including Sorbus greaca and Acer monspessulanum. Forthis purpose, indole acetic acid (auxin) producing bacteria was isolated by dilution and screening method and identified by microbiological methods. Collected seeds were sterilized and treated by mentioned treatments and incubated at 4 C. There was a significant different between control and treated seeds in Acer but no difference was seen among treatments. Results indicated a significant different between KNO₃ (5000ppm), Citrobacter and Alcaligenese treatments and control and other treatments in Sorbus seeds germination. In conclusion, there is possibility and potential to use microbial treatments alone or with other environmental friendly method to increase the seed germination or decreasing seed dormancy period.