**Seed Germination Technologies for Helophyte Production Used in Wastewater Treatment**

Trinidad Ruiz-Téllez, Francisco M. Vázquez-Pardo, José Blanco-Salas and F. Javier Carbonell-Espín

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/64084

#### **Abstract**

Constructed green wetlands with horizontal surface for wastewater treatment are gaining acceptance. Many countries have published innovative experiences with this technology. A great variety of wastewaters from industries have been treated. Different plant species have been tested. Seed technology development provides interesting tools to produce these species in nurseries. It is a sustainable new business. But studies on seed germination of aquatic and lacustrine plants are very few. That is why we have made the following bibliographic review. We have summarised and analysed the state of the art of this innovative topic, concluding that seed technology for multiplication of helophytes needs further experimental work. But there is enough information to produce right now, tens of different species. Significant efforts have been done. Even though it is a challenge to produce from now on, experimental results are ready to be transferred to those who are trading with this type of plants. Helophytes have a promising future as sustainable elements of the upcoming sewage equipment. Improvements on the biotechnology of these species are a worthwhile researching line. To this aim, the following revision is an essential compilation with which to begin.

**Keywords:** germination protocol, green filter, helophyte, wastewater, production
