Methodological study on selection of conditions for improving Taraxacum kok-saghyz Rodin seed germination

Currently, Kok Sagyz is considered to be the most promising source of natural rubber. In many countries significant investments in the development of rubber production technologies based on the use of this plant are being made. Ensuring a high percentage of rapid and uniform germination is important for Kok Sagyz cultivation. In this research we have obtained results significantly extending the idea of temperature as a factor affecting the characteristics of Kok Sagyz seeds germination, which is important for this rubber plant reproduction practice. The aim of our study was to determine a practical and simple method to improve the germination of Taraxacum kok-saghyz seed. An orthogonal array design L9 (34)] was used to optimize three factors: concentration of KMnO4 solution (0.07 %, 0.1 %, and 0.2 %), soaking time (1, 2, and 4 h), and germination temperature (4/17, 17, and 23 °С). Germination parameters, including germination percentage, T50 (time taken for 50 % of seeds to germinate), germination index, and vigor index, were evaluated...