Effect of environmental factors on some seed germination aspects of two populations of common cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium L.)

In the present study, germination behavior of two populations of Xanthium strumarium in different controlled conditions was investigated. For this purpose, seeds of Xanthium strumarium were collected randomly from several farms in Karaj and Ahvaz. In first study, germination behavior of two populations of Xanthium strumarium investigated in different constant temperature, temperature fluctuations, periods of darkness / lighting and high temperature. The maximum seed germination in constant temperature was observed at 30 C in Karaj population (85.25%) and Ahwaz population (87.75%) at 30 C. while in temperature fluctuations Maximum seed germination was observed at 20/30 C in Karaj population (93.25%) and Ahwaz population (96.75%). Seeds of two populations were able to germinate at a wide range of temperatures. Different periods of dark / light showed no significant effect on seed germination of two populations. High temperatures an above 100 ° C caused a significant reduction in germination but Ahvaz population resistance was more than Karaj population in high temperatures. Using the result of this research we may manage better this weed especially through non-chemical methods. It should be noted that non-chemical methods such as flooding, controls of mechanical, thermal, solarization and mulch can be recommended with more time for Ahvaz population.