Seedbank Persistence and Viability of Amaranthus retroflexus Seeds in Different Soil Types and Depths

Abstract

Seedbank persistence of weed species plays a crucial role in determining long-term infestation dynamics and the effectiveness of integrated weed management strategies. The present study evaluated the persistence and viability of Amaranthus retroflexus seeds under varying soil types and burial depths to understand their survival behavior in agricultural ecosystems. Seeds were buried in sandy, loamy, and clay soils at different depths and monitored over a defined experimental period. Periodic assessments were conducted to determine seed viability, dormancy status, and germination potential using standard laboratory and field methods. Results indicated that soil texture and burial depth significantly influenced seed persistence and viability. Seeds buried at deeper depths exhibited greater longevity due to reduced environmental fluctuations and lower exposure to microbial degradation and predation. In contrast, seeds located near the soil surface showed faster depletion of viability, particularly in sandy soils where moisture retention was limited. Clay soils provided comparatively favorable conditions for prolonged seed survival owing to higher moisture conservation and reduced aeration. The interaction between soil properties and burial depth demonstrated substantial variation in seedbank dynamics, highlighting the adaptive survival mechanisms of A. retroflexus. The findings contribute valuable insights for predicting weed emergence patterns and developing effective cultural and mechanical weed management practices aimed at reducing persistent seedbanks in crop production systems.