EFFECT OF GAMMA-RADIATION ON WEEDS
An investigation was made of the doses of gamma radiation needed to prevent weed seeds from growing. The seeds were stored at 32 per cent relative humidity and irradiated in air with a range of doses from 0 to 100,000 rads of gamma radiation from cobalt-60. They were then planted in steam-sterilized soil, and the number of plants arriving at maturity were counted. The results obtained indicate that germination was not related to survival, as irradiated seedlings were generally weaker than controls, and often had distorted first leaves. Seedlings which survived matured later than controls but were not obviously distinguishable otherwise; induced sterility was frequently noted. The investigation also indicated that arable soils need treatment with at least 100,000 rads of gamma radiation to inhibit weed growth effectively. (J.H.M.)
- Research Organization:
- Wantage Radiation Lab., Grove, Berks, Eng.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- NSA Number:
- NSA-13-010807
- OSTI ID:
- 4255337
- Journal Information:
- Nature, Journal Name: Nature Vol. Vol: 183
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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