Morpho-physiology and seed quality attributes envisage physiological maturity in Lasiurus sindicus (Henr.): key perennial grass of arid ecosystem

Successful seed-based vegetation restoration and conservation programs in arid ecosystem of sandy desert significantly depend on the quality of seeds harvested from native plant species. The present study was conducted to evaluate seed quality attributes associated with different harvest stages of the perennial grass Lasiurus sindicus (Henr.), a key indigenous species of the sandy desert. Spikes were harvested at various intervals (10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 days after spike emergence) in the nursery and assessed for seed water content, seed dry weight and seed quality parameters (seed setting, viability, germination, and membrane integrity) following standard protocols. Seed water content and dry weight exhibited a quadratic relationship with harvest stage, with maximum dry weight and minimum water content achieved at 25 days after spike emergence. Furthermore, seed quality attributes were significantly influenced by the harvesting stage. Optimal values for seed viability and germination were observed close to physiological maturity (25–30 days after spike emergence). However, the germination percentage was significantly lower than the viability percentage, likely due to the presence of seed dormancy. A systematic understanding of seed maturity in relation to the harvesting schedule will greatly aid in obtaining high percentage of physiologically matured seeds, which may impact seed-based major restoration programs in different desert ecosystem.