(2) whether timing of germination is affected by oxygen and light; and (3) whether germination is related to wetland functional groups. Six species did not germinate. Of the 14 species that did germinate, a non-native ruderal (Echinochloa crus-galli) had the greatest germination success. However, we found that low O2 reduced germination success of all but three species (Rudbeckia triloba, Sagittaria latifolia and Typha latifolia). Reduction in light levels only reduced germination success of S. latifolia. We conclude that the physiological constraints that control germination operate independently for oxygen and light. It is important to know and anticipate oxygen and light levels when designing a wetland restoration project so that the proper species can be sown that can germinate under the specific conditions. Restoration planners should be aware that anoxic and hypoxic conditions seem to promote the germination of weedy and potentially invasive native and non-native species.