Preliminary data on muriatic acid scarification of honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos) seeds

Abstract

My preliminary, nonreplicated study suggests that 20% hydrochloric acid, commonly known as muriatic acid, can be used to effectively scarify honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos L. [Fabaceae]) seeds. Seeds were soaked for 1 to 24 h in muriatic acid. Almost no treatment effects were seen until 10 h of soaking, after which percentage germination peaked at 74% after 18 h of treatment. Although percentage germination was lower than with sandpaper scarification and sulfuric acid scarification, muriatic acid may have applicability, and be a safer, less labor-intensive option, for treating seeds of other native species that require scarification.