The depletion of weed seeds in the soil seed bank

Abstract

SThe fate of weed seeds in the soil seed bank depends on the processes of emigration, desiccation, predation, and germination. We summarise an ongoing trial on multiple tropical weed species that investigates the emergence of seedlings (successful germination) at a field research site. Intact fruiting structures were placed enclosed in wire mesh cages, on two different soil surfaces and with two different ground covers, and the emergence of seedlings was regularly recorded. By understanding the processes determining the fate of seed, practitioners can plan the duration and timing of control activities. Emergence is still being recorded from most of the seed lots, and the trial demonstrates the persistence that follows a large single reproductive episode.