The conservation of plant genetic resources necessitates a keen understanding of plant storage behavior and seed germination ecology. Deciphering the physiological mechanisms and ecology of seed germination is a primary objective, aiming to design effective conservation strategies for both crops and their wild relatives. This knowledge serves as a prerequisite for both in situ and ex situ conservation efforts. Our overarching goal is based on the recognition that the seed systems of many indigenous fruits and vegetables remain unreliable, coupled with limited knowledge on how to germinate or conserve them. In response, our research programs are dedicated to the investigation of seed germination ecology, with a specific focus on selected high-value fruits and vegetable species.
