Evaluating seed viability in prairie forbs: a test of three methods

A fundamental aspect of establishing native plant species in restorations is ensuring that the seed used is viable. We test whether seed viability estimates for wild-collected seed of 4 forb species native to prairie habitat differ when using 3 methods: 1) germination, 2) tetrazolium, and 3) X-ray. Study species include Eryngium yuccifolium Michx. (button eryngo [Apiaceae]), Lespedeza capitata Michx. (roundhead lespedeza...