LARGER SEED MASS PREDICTS HIGHER GERMINATION AND EMERGENCE RATES IN SANDY GRASSLAND SPECIES WITH NON-DORMANT SEEDS

The lack of knowledge on the traits related to germination and establishment native plant species represents obstacles restoration. Seed mass, emergence variability from two characteristic grasses ( Festuca vaginata Stipa borysthenica ), dicots Centaurea arenaria Dianthus serotinus ) Hungarian sandy grasslands altogether 34 localities were tested. Our results showed that seed mass had a significant positive effect germinability seedling all species. laboratory capacity S. was low due dormancy. We found among between in except for . This variation populations might be explained by local adaptation or maternal effects. conclude under laboratory-regulated conditions is good predictor restoration projects, but limited with non-dormant seeds.