Dry-Cold Stratification Combined with Pericarp Removal: Germination, Seedling Development, and Physiological Changes of Lilyturf (Liriope muscari (Decne.) L.H. Bailey)

Background and objective: Lilyturf (Liriope muscari (Decne.) L.H. Bailey) is a perennial herbaceous plant of high medicinaland horticultural value. However, its seeds are characterized by thick pericarp and fleshy pulp, which are associated withlow germination rates and poor seedling establishment. This study was conducted to examine the combined effects ofpericarp removal and dry-cold stratification periods on germination, seedling development, and physiological changes inL. muscari. The findings are intended to provide fundamental insights that can support the development of efficientseedling production techniques. Methods: Fruits of L. muscari were subjected to two experimental factors: pericarp removal (control versus pericarp-removed) and dry-cold stratification at 3°C for 0, 15, 30, 45, or 60 days. Thirteen weeks after sowing, a series of indices andparameters related to germination, seedling development, plant quality, and physiological responses were measured toevaluate overall seedling performance. Results: The combination of pericarp removal and 45-60 days of dry-cold stratification significantly enhanced germinationefficiency and improved morphological traits during the seedling stage, indicating long-term benefits. In contrast, ashort-term dry-cold stratification period (15 days) in the control group reduced germination and early seedling growth, andthis was accompanied by declines in SPAD units and several chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Morphological andbiomass parameters reflected structural stability and balance, whereas normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI),photochemical reflectance index (PRI), modified chlorophyll absorption ratio index (MCARI), and OJIP chlorophyllfluorescence parameters captured photosynthetic efficiency, pigment status, and energy dynamics as indicators ofimmediate physiological responses. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the combination of pericarp removal and an optimal duration (45-60 days) ofdry-cold stratification is an effective strategy not only for improving the germination of L. muscari seeds but also formaintaining the morphophysiological integrity of subsequent seedlings. The proposed pre-sowing treatment can beincorporated into standard protocols for seed-based propagation, commercial seedling production, and large-scalecultivation of L. muscari.