Seedling mortality and submergence in Diplachne fusca: a semi- aquatic weed of rice fields

Abstract

Seedlings growing under non-flooded conditions in rice crops sown in unflooded soils, were susceptible to water stress, with up to 65% dying. Seedlings emerging in autumn after rain also became water stressed. Those surviving were stunted by cold temperatures or killed by frost or site disturbance. Under controlled flooding conditions, continuous submergence resulted in greater germination than brief irrigations. Delaying permanent flooding gave less germination but fewer deaths after onset of flooding compared with flooding for the duration of the experiment. Significantly more seedlings established in 4 cm deep permanent floodwater than in 12 cm. Single-leaved seedlings could establish in ..