Seed Dormancy, Viability, and Longevity of Convolvulus arvensis Under Different Soil Depth and Temperature Conditions

Abstract

Seed dormancy, viability, and longevity of Convolvulus arvensis represent critical ecological traits contributing to its persistence and invasiveness in agricultural ecosystems. The present study investigated the influence of soil depth and temperature regimes on seed germination behavior, dormancy release, and long-term viability under controlled laboratory and simulated field conditions. Seeds were buried at varying soil depths and exposed to different temperature treatments to evaluate germination percentage, dormancy break, and seedling emergence patterns over time. Results indicated that seed germination was significantly affected by both burial depth and temperature conditions. Maximum germination was recorded from shallow soil depths, while deeper burial layers exhibited prolonged dormancy and reduced emergence due to limited light penetration and altered thermal fluctuations. Temperature played a decisive role in regulating dormancy release, with moderate temperature regimes enhancing germination potential, whereas extreme temperatures inhibited metabolic activation and delayed emergence. Seed viability tests revealed that C. arvensis seeds retained high viability over extended periods, particularly when buried deeper in soil profiles, indicating strong seed persistence and longevity. Interaction effects between soil depth and temperature demonstrated that optimal germination occurred under shallow burial combined with favorable thermal conditions, while deeper placement acted as a natural dormancy-maintaining environment. These findings highlight the adaptive survival strategy of C. arvensis, enabling long-term persistence in disturbed agroecosystems. The study underscores the importance of considering seed bank dynamics in weed management programs, particularly in perennial weed species with extended viability. Overall, soil microenvironment and temperature fluctuations jointly regulate dormancy cycling and persistence of C. arvensis, emphasizing the need for integrated weed control strategies targeting seed bank depletion for sustainable agricultural management.