Effect of Ca on Germination of Jatropha curcas Seed Under Low Temperature Stress

The effects of seed soaking with different concentrations of CaCl2 on the germination properties of Jatropha curcas seeds, MDA content and relative electrical conductivity under 4℃ low temperature stress were studied. The results showed that the seed soaking with 10 mmol/L concentration of CaCl2 treatment could increase the vigor of germination, germination index, vigor index and germination rate compared to the control and other treatments, and it could simultaneously reduce the MDA content and relative electrical conductivity of Jatropha curcas seeds under 4℃ low temperature. It was concluded that soaking the seeds with appropriate concentration of calcium could promote the germination of Jatropha curcas seeds and maintain cell membrane integrity and stability under low temperature stress condition.