In order to investigate the effect of priming techniques on germination parameters of ajowan (Carum copticum L.) seed, an experiment was conducted in completely randomized design with four replications. The experiment treatments included a control (no priming), three hydropriming levels with distilled water (24, 36, and 48 h), three osmopriming levels with PEG (solutions with osmotic potential of -4, -8 and -12 bar), three hormone priming levels with GA3 (50, 100 and 150 ppm), three halopriming levels with KNO3 solution (2, 3, and 4%) and three zinc sulfate levels (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 %). The results showed that priming treatments had a significant effect on all traits. The rate and percentage of germination were declined in some priming treatments compared to control. Radicle length and root dry weight were decreased in polyethylene glycol -8 bar. Polyethylene glycol -4 bar and 24h hydropriming treatments significantly decreased shoot length and allometry coefficient. However, the treatment of 100 ppm hormone priming significantly increased these traits. Hydropriming 24 h treatment significantly increased germination rate, percentage and seed vigor, but hydropriming 48 h significantly increased radicle and shoot length compared to control. In conclusion, according to the priority of germination or radicle, shoot growth and seed priming cost as well, the hydropriming 24 or 48 h can be recommended as most appropriate priming type for ajowan seeds.
