Assessing the applicability of seed pelleting technology for milkweed establishment

Presenter: Michael Cohen

Co-Presenter(s):
student representative from BIOL 338 (tbd)

Presenter Status: Faculty

Academic Year: 22-23

Semester: Spring

Faculty Mentor: Michael Cohen

Department: Biology

Funding Source/Sponsor: CEI

President's Strategic Plan Goal: Sustainability and Environmental Inquiry

Screenshot URL: https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15pN78tCAXPR3LvwKcLIkFEq_vEAybJ2u

Abstract:
The restoration of plant life in degraded environments is hindered by animal, particularly bird, feeding upon the seeds and, when not buried, surface exposure to the elements. Seed pelleting into “seedballs” is a potential means to address this problem. In the process of pelleting seeds are encased in a shell composed of clay and vermicompost that may also include organic polymers, termed hydrogels, to help retain water. For this study, we are assessing the effect of including hydrogel in seedballs with respect to seed germination rate, germinant survival, and resultant plant growth, of narrow milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis). Plots at three locations in Sonoma County, including two sites on the Sonoma State campus, were planted with naked seeds and seedballs containing 0.5 g, 1.0 g or no hydrogel. Findings from this study will inform local programs to expand milkweed populations to assist monarch butterfly restoration efforts.