Flower bud differentiation by temperature and photoperiod was investigated in early-, medium-, and late-maturing cultivars of radish (Raphanus sativus L.). Flower bud differentiation was induced by only day-length extension treatment (18 hr light/day) in early - and medium-maturing cultivars. Therefore, the early- and medium-maturing cultivars of radish were advanced the time of the flowering by the 2 weeks low temperature duration with day-length extension (18 hr light/day). The vegetative growth of early- and medium-maturing cultivar was the best by only day-length extension (18 hr light/day). However, late-maturing cultivar was needed for the flower bud differentiation and optimal vegetative growth not only long-day but also low temperature during 4~6 weeks at least. Our results suggest the optimal condition for flower bud differentiation in the each early-, medium-, and late-maturing cultivars of radish, which will be useful to develop breeding materials of radish.

The influence of seed maturity, stratification, and seed washing method on seed germination were investigated for establishment of seed propagation system in dropwort (Oenanthe stolonifera DC). Seed germination rate was increased as period of the seed ripening increased, especially the seed over 40 days after flowering showed the highest germination rate. The optimum period of cold stratification treatment to promote seed germination was about 8 weeks. The seed treated by a cold wet stratification with sand exhibited higher germination rate compared to the seed treated by a cold wet stratification without sand. The stratified seeds that were stored in the ground having fluctuating temperature were improved up to 19%, while stratification stored under constant temperature(4°C) did not improve germination rate. In addition, 8 weeks of stratification period under fluctuating temperature in the ground was most effective. Sodium hypochlorite, vital oxide, and distilled water were used as chemicals to remove the germination inhibitor of seed coat. Water washing of seed coat after soaking in 0.5% sodium hypochlorite and 0.0005% vital oxide for three minutes and 60 minutes respectively could effectively remove the germination inhibitors in the seed coat.