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Showing 150 results for Germination
Hamid Zolghadri, Salim Farzaneh, Mohammad Ahmadi, Raouf Sayed Sharifi,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of hydroprime and seed coating with humic acid, and biological compounds on the germination and emergence of the sweet corn cultivar 'Amyla'.
Method: The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications under laboratory and greenhouse conditions, and four replications under field conditions in 2018. The study was carried out at Mohaghegh Ardabili University and the experimental fields of the National Agro-Industrial Company of Moghan. The fourteen treatments consisted of seed coating with different amounts of amino acid fertilizer (2, 4, and 6 g kg-1 of seed), seaweed extract (3, 6, and 9 g kg-1 of seed), humic acid (3, 6, and 9 g kg-1 of seed), hydroprime + humic acid, hydroprime + seaweed extract, hydroprime + amino acid, hydroprime alone, and an uncoated control. A 3% carboxymethylcellulose solution was used as an adhesive for the seed coating.
Results: Seed coating with humic acid and hydroprime significantly improved the germination and emergence percentages of the 'Amyla' sweet corn seeds under laboratory, greenhouse, and field conditions. The best results were obtained with the hydroprime and humic acid (6 g kg-1) treatments, which showed the highest germination percentage (98.66%) and emergence percentage (93.33%). The germination and emergence rates also increased significantly in these treatments. Contrary to expectations, seaweed extract negatively affected the germination and emergence of the sweet corn seeds. These results indicate that using seaweed extract as a seed coating may not be suitable for all corn cultivars. The 3% carboxymethylcellulose adhesive used for coating had no adverse effect on seed germination and emergence; in some cases, it even slightly improved the results.
Conclusions: This research clearly demonstrates that coating 'Amyla' sweet corn seeds with humic acid (6 g kg-1) and hydroprime is not only a practical solution for improving germination and seedling establishment but also, as a sustainable technology, can help address challenges in modern agriculture.
Highlights
Method: The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications under laboratory and greenhouse conditions, and four replications under field conditions in 2018. The study was carried out at Mohaghegh Ardabili University and the experimental fields of the National Agro-Industrial Company of Moghan. The fourteen treatments consisted of seed coating with different amounts of amino acid fertilizer (2, 4, and 6 g kg-1 of seed), seaweed extract (3, 6, and 9 g kg-1 of seed), humic acid (3, 6, and 9 g kg-1 of seed), hydroprime + humic acid, hydroprime + seaweed extract, hydroprime + amino acid, hydroprime alone, and an uncoated control. A 3% carboxymethylcellulose solution was used as an adhesive for the seed coating.
Results: Seed coating with humic acid and hydroprime significantly improved the germination and emergence percentages of the 'Amyla' sweet corn seeds under laboratory, greenhouse, and field conditions. The best results were obtained with the hydroprime and humic acid (6 g kg-1) treatments, which showed the highest germination percentage (98.66%) and emergence percentage (93.33%). The germination and emergence rates also increased significantly in these treatments. Contrary to expectations, seaweed extract negatively affected the germination and emergence of the sweet corn seeds. These results indicate that using seaweed extract as a seed coating may not be suitable for all corn cultivars. The 3% carboxymethylcellulose adhesive used for coating had no adverse effect on seed germination and emergence; in some cases, it even slightly improved the results.
Conclusions: This research clearly demonstrates that coating 'Amyla' sweet corn seeds with humic acid (6 g kg-1) and hydroprime is not only a practical solution for improving germination and seedling establishment but also, as a sustainable technology, can help address challenges in modern agriculture.
Highlights
- The effects of hydropriming and seed coating with humic acid, amino acid fertilizer, and seaweed extract on germination and emergence of 'Amyla' sweet corn cultivar were evaluated.
- The combination of hydropriming and humic acid coating (6 g kg⁻¹) was an optimal strategy for enhancing germination and seedling establishment of 'Amyla' sweet corn cultivar.
Farshid Ghaderi-Far, Majid Azimmohseni, Sima Sheikhveisi,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objective: This study introduces functional analysis of variance as a method for comparing germination trends under different treatments over a given time interval. This approach not only enables the comparison of treatments over the entire time period but also allows for treatment comparisons at each specific moment in time. Moreover, it identifies critical time points at which the maximum significant difference between treatments occurs, which can serve as novel germination indices.
Method: In this study, real experimental data from four germination studies were analyzed: (1) the effect of temperature on Nigella sativa germination, (2) the effect of salinity stress on Zea mays seed germination, (3) the comparison of germination among different Triticum astivum cultivars, and (4) the effect of water stress on Brassica napus germination. Using spline functions, germination data from these experiments were modeled as a function of time. The results of functional analysis were then used to compare treatments in terms of both germination percentage and germination time across the four experiments.
Results: The results of the functional analysis demonstrated its high efficiency in detecting significant or non-significant differences between treatments throughout the germination period. Furthermore, this method enabled comparisons of germination percentages at any given time point, as well as comparisons of germination times at various germination percentiles, providing detailed insights into the nature of differences among treatments. This approach also facilitated the introduction of new germination indices applicable to different seed types.
Conclusions: Overall, the results of this study indicate that the stepwise functional analysis method introduced here is an effective and precise tool for comparing treatments in germination data. This approach not only enhances treatment comparisons but also provides detailed insights into the nature of differences between treatments. Moreover, it overcomes the limitations associated with using conventional germination indices for treatment comparisons.
Highlights
- Functional analysis was applied to compare treatments in germination percentage data.
- The method enabled treatment comparisons in terms of germination percentage at each moment in time, as well as comparisons of germination times at various percentiles.
- Critical germination times and percentiles at which the maximum differences between treatments occur were introduced as novel germination indices.
Nasrin Teimoori, Mohsen Saeidi, Mahmood Khoramivafa, Shahab Khoshkhoi,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Volume 12, Issue 1 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to assess the efficiency of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in mitigating salinity stress effects in comparison with bulk ZnO, and to examine the influence of different priming durations on chickpea seed germination under salinity conditions.
Method: The study was conducted as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications on chickpea (Kasra cultivar). The first factor was the priming agent (1-100 nm ZnO nanoparticles, 40-60 nm ZnO nanoparticles, bulk ZnO, and hydro-priming). The second factor was the priming duration (6, 12, and 24 h), and the third factor was the level of salinity stress (0, 20, 40, and 80 mM NaCl). Key indicators related to germination quality and seedling growth were subsequently assessed.
Results: Salinity stress significantly affected the germination percentage, germination rate, mean germination time, mean daily germination, and seedling vigor weight index. The respective values at 0 and 80 mM NaCl were 98.7% vs. 68.4%, 15.6 vs. 10.4 germinated seeds per day, 2.11 vs. 2.39 days, 12.3 vs. 8.56 seeds per day, and 5466 vs. 1853. Salinity stress also significantly increased the root-to-shoot length ratio. Seed priming with 1-100 nm ZnO nanoparticles significantly increased seedling dry weight, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, and consequently, the seedling vigor index compared to other zinc forms and hydro-priming. Furthermore, this treatment reduced the percentage of abnormal seedlings to 20.7% under 80 mM NaCl. Priming durations of 12 and 24 h were superior to 6 h, resulting in a significant increase in seedling and shoot length, seedling and shoot weight, and the seedling vigor length index.
Method: The study was conducted as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications on chickpea (Kasra cultivar). The first factor was the priming agent (1-100 nm ZnO nanoparticles, 40-60 nm ZnO nanoparticles, bulk ZnO, and hydro-priming). The second factor was the priming duration (6, 12, and 24 h), and the third factor was the level of salinity stress (0, 20, 40, and 80 mM NaCl). Key indicators related to germination quality and seedling growth were subsequently assessed.
Results: Salinity stress significantly affected the germination percentage, germination rate, mean germination time, mean daily germination, and seedling vigor weight index. The respective values at 0 and 80 mM NaCl were 98.7% vs. 68.4%, 15.6 vs. 10.4 germinated seeds per day, 2.11 vs. 2.39 days, 12.3 vs. 8.56 seeds per day, and 5466 vs. 1853. Salinity stress also significantly increased the root-to-shoot length ratio. Seed priming with 1-100 nm ZnO nanoparticles significantly increased seedling dry weight, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, and consequently, the seedling vigor index compared to other zinc forms and hydro-priming. Furthermore, this treatment reduced the percentage of abnormal seedlings to 20.7% under 80 mM NaCl. Priming durations of 12 and 24 h were superior to 6 h, resulting in a significant increase in seedling and shoot length, seedling and shoot weight, and the seedling vigor length index.
Conclusions: Salinity stress had significant adverse effects on germination and seedling growth characteristics and increased the proportion of abnormal seedlings. However, seed priming exerted a more pronounced positive effect on improving seedling growth and reducing the number of abnormal seedlings. Among the priming treatments, ZnO nanoparticles (1-100 nm) with a priming duration of 12 h were the most effective in enhancing seedling growth and the seedling vigor index, providing clear guidance for future research and applications.
Highlights
Highlights
- Seed priming at a salinity level of 20 mM significantly alleviated the adverse effects of salinity on seedling growth parameters.
- Seed priming of chickpea with zinc nanoparticles (1 to 100 nm) was more effective than other seed priming methods in promoting seedling growth.
- A priming duration of 12 h was identified as the optimal treatment for maximizing seedling growth and vigor index.
Simin Haghanifar, Marjan Diyanat, Aidin Hamidi, Fereidoon Ghasemkhan-Ghajar, Elias Soltani,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Given the extent of saline lands worldwide, this study aimed to evaluate the tolerance of Persian Camelthorn (Alhagi camelorum) to salinity stress during germination and early growth stages following seed hardness removal, to promote its cultivation as a forage plant for livestock.
Method: A factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four replications in 2023 at the Seed Analysis Laboratory of the Seed and Plant Certification and Registration Institute. Factors included: (1) seed population (Gorgan and Mashhad), (2) salinity levels (0, 100, and 200 mM NaCl), and (3) seed hardness removal treatments (immersion in 100°C water for 1 minute and concentrated sulfuric acid for 35 minutes). Germination percentage, mean daily germination time, seedling vigor index, stem length, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured.
Results: Salinity stress significantly reduced germination percentage, as well as stem length. Germination indices differed significantly between control and 200 mM treatments. Increasing salinity decreased mean daily germination in all treatments. The highest salinity level reduced stem length by 65% and 44% in the Mashhad population, and 71% and 64% in the Gorgan population, compared to control, respectively. Treatment with 100°C water and 200 mM salinity increased SOD activity by 56.9% in the Mashhad population and 45.4% in the Gorgan population. Sulfuric acid treatment with 200 mM salinity increased SOD activity by 25.4% and 13.0% in Mashhad and Gorgan populations, respectively.
Conclusions: Sulfuric acid treatment for 35 minutes significantly increased germination percentage in both populations compared to 100°C water treatment. The greater increase in SOD activity in the Mashhad population suggests higher salinity tolerance, making it a suitable candidate for cultivation in saline lands.
Highlights
- Sulfuric acid (35 min) and hot water (100°C, 1 min) effectively broke seed dormancy and improved germination.
- The Mashhad population was more salt-tolerant than the Gorgan population.
- Both populations countered salinity through enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity.
Haniyeh Saadat, Mohammad Sedghi,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the reduction of adverse effects of salinity stress on germination and related traits of wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Sain) through seed priming with chitosan nanoparticles.
Method: The experiment was conducted as a factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design with three replications at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili in 2025. Treatments included four salinity levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl) and four levels of chitosan nanoparticles (0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5% weight/volume dissolved in 1% acetic acid).
Results: Germination percentage (GP) and plumule fresh weight (PFW) decreased at 150 mM salinity compared to the control (without salinity), but seed priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles improved GP and PFW at the same salinity level by about 20% and 50%, respectively, compared to no chitosan application. Radicle fresh weight (RFW), radicle dry weight (RDW), plumule dry weight (PDW), seedling length vigor index (SLVI), and seedling weight vigor index (SWVI) in the 0.5% chitosan nanoparticle treatment without salinity increased by 77, 72, 83, 76, and 89%, respectively, compared to hydropriming under 150 mM salinity. With increasing salinity, proline content increased, but the application of 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles increased this trait by 32% compared to hydropriming. Protein content under no salinity and priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles increased by about 76% compared to hydropriming under 150 mM salinity. Also, soluble sugar content in the treatment with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles under 150 mM salinity increased by about 84% compared to hydropriming without salinity.
Conclusions: The results showed that the use of 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles improved germination indices and biochemical traits of wheat seeds under salinity stress.
Highlights
Method: The experiment was conducted as a factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design with three replications at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili in 2025. Treatments included four salinity levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl) and four levels of chitosan nanoparticles (0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5% weight/volume dissolved in 1% acetic acid).
Results: Germination percentage (GP) and plumule fresh weight (PFW) decreased at 150 mM salinity compared to the control (without salinity), but seed priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles improved GP and PFW at the same salinity level by about 20% and 50%, respectively, compared to no chitosan application. Radicle fresh weight (RFW), radicle dry weight (RDW), plumule dry weight (PDW), seedling length vigor index (SLVI), and seedling weight vigor index (SWVI) in the 0.5% chitosan nanoparticle treatment without salinity increased by 77, 72, 83, 76, and 89%, respectively, compared to hydropriming under 150 mM salinity. With increasing salinity, proline content increased, but the application of 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles increased this trait by 32% compared to hydropriming. Protein content under no salinity and priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles increased by about 76% compared to hydropriming under 150 mM salinity. Also, soluble sugar content in the treatment with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles under 150 mM salinity increased by about 84% compared to hydropriming without salinity.
Conclusions: The results showed that the use of 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles improved germination indices and biochemical traits of wheat seeds under salinity stress.
Highlights
- Seed priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles improved some germination indices of wheat (cv. Sain) seeds under salinity stress.
- Seed priming with 0.5% chitosan nanoparticles increased proline, protein, and soluble sugar contents in wheat (cv. Sain) seedlings.
Atefeh Rashidifard, Meisam Rezaei,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Salinity is a major abiotic stress reducing crop yield and quality worldwide. This review systematically evaluates the effectiveness of seed priming and coating with humic acid (HA) as a strategy to improve germination, seedling establishment, and plant growth under salt stress.
Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in major scientific databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar) using relevant keywords. Studies investigating physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of HA-mediated salt tolerance through seed priming and coating were reviewed.
Results: Seed priming and coating with humic acid significantly improved germination percentage and rate, increased root and shoot growth, and enhanced chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency under salinity. HA reduced Na⁺accumulation, improved K⁺/Na⁺ ratio, and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, POX). It also promoted ATP production and facilitated uptake of essential nutrients (K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺).
Conclusions: Seed priming and coating with humic acid is an effective, low-cost, and environmentally friendly approach to enhance salt tolerance in crops. It accelerates seedling establishment, stimulates root growth, and reduces oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant enzyme activity. Future research should focus on synergistic effects with other biostimulants across different crops and salinity levels.
Highlights
Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in major scientific databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar) using relevant keywords. Studies investigating physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of HA-mediated salt tolerance through seed priming and coating were reviewed.
Results: Seed priming and coating with humic acid significantly improved germination percentage and rate, increased root and shoot growth, and enhanced chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency under salinity. HA reduced Na⁺accumulation, improved K⁺/Na⁺ ratio, and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, POX). It also promoted ATP production and facilitated uptake of essential nutrients (K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺).
Conclusions: Seed priming and coating with humic acid is an effective, low-cost, and environmentally friendly approach to enhance salt tolerance in crops. It accelerates seedling establishment, stimulates root growth, and reduces oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant enzyme activity. Future research should focus on synergistic effects with other biostimulants across different crops and salinity levels.
Highlights
- Priming and coating seeds with humic acid boosts plant tolerance to salinity stress.
- Humic acid improves soil health and nutrient efficiency sustainably.
- Priming and coating seeds with humic acid is a cost-effective method for boosting crop growth and yield in salt-affected soils.
Fatemeh Fath Fathabadi, Marzieh Etehadpour, Mohadeseh Shamsaddin Saied,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of seed priming with abiotic stimulants, including salicylic acid, proline, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and melatonin, on improving salt stress tolerance in Calendula officinalis L.
Methods: The experiment was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions using a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with three replications. Treatments consisted of four salinity levels (0, 3, 6, and 9 dS m-1) and six seed priming treatments: non-primed control, hydropriming (distilled water), salicylic acid (1.5 mM), proline (100 mg L-1), GABA (10 mM), and melatonin (100 µM). Seeds were primed for 24 h in darkness at 20°C prior to exposure to salinity stress. Parameters evaluated included germination percentage and rate, seedling vigor index, root and shoot length, and dry weight of roots and shoot.
Results: Increasing salinity levels significantly reduced all measured germination and growth traits. Germination percentage decreased by 6.7%, 18.9%, and 24.5% at 3, 6, and 9 dS m-1, respectively, compared with the control. Seed priming significantly mitigated the adverse effects of salinity stress. Among the tested stimulants, hydropriming consistently improved germination percentage, germination rate, seedling vigor index, and biomass accumulation across all salinity levels, and maintained its positive effect even under severe salinity stress (9 dS m-1). GABA and salicylic acid produced the greatest increases in shoot dry weight, while proline, melatonin, and GABA also enhanced early seedling growth. Under severe salinity, primed plants showed lower performance reduction with increasing salt level, indicating improved stress tolerance.
Conclusions: Overall, seed priming with appropriate abiotic stimulants represents an effective, economical, and environmentally friendly strategy for reducing salinity-induced damage and improving the establishment and productivity of medicinal plants in salt-affected environments. The positive effects of priming treatments were dependent on both the type of stimulant and the severity of salinity stress.
Highlights:
Methods: The experiment was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions using a factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with three replications. Treatments consisted of four salinity levels (0, 3, 6, and 9 dS m-1) and six seed priming treatments: non-primed control, hydropriming (distilled water), salicylic acid (1.5 mM), proline (100 mg L-1), GABA (10 mM), and melatonin (100 µM). Seeds were primed for 24 h in darkness at 20°C prior to exposure to salinity stress. Parameters evaluated included germination percentage and rate, seedling vigor index, root and shoot length, and dry weight of roots and shoot.
Results: Increasing salinity levels significantly reduced all measured germination and growth traits. Germination percentage decreased by 6.7%, 18.9%, and 24.5% at 3, 6, and 9 dS m-1, respectively, compared with the control. Seed priming significantly mitigated the adverse effects of salinity stress. Among the tested stimulants, hydropriming consistently improved germination percentage, germination rate, seedling vigor index, and biomass accumulation across all salinity levels, and maintained its positive effect even under severe salinity stress (9 dS m-1). GABA and salicylic acid produced the greatest increases in shoot dry weight, while proline, melatonin, and GABA also enhanced early seedling growth. Under severe salinity, primed plants showed lower performance reduction with increasing salt level, indicating improved stress tolerance.
Conclusions: Overall, seed priming with appropriate abiotic stimulants represents an effective, economical, and environmentally friendly strategy for reducing salinity-induced damage and improving the establishment and productivity of medicinal plants in salt-affected environments. The positive effects of priming treatments were dependent on both the type of stimulant and the severity of salinity stress.
Highlights:
- Proline and GABA mitigated salinity effects on marigold germination.
- Hydropriming consistently enhanced biomass under all salinity levels.
- Elicitor effectiveness depended on salinity severity and trait type.
Ramin Zeilabpour, Ali Moradi, Hamidreza Balouchi, Alireza Yadavi, Hojatollah Latifmanesh,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Seed aging in oilseeds such as sesame is a major storage challenge, reducing germination quality and seedling vigor. The high-oil cultivar Darab‑1 is highly sensitive to storage conditions (temperature, moisture, and time). In this study, the effects of different Pix concentrations in interaction with temperature, moisture, and storage duration were investigated on germination and biochemical traits of seeds to determine the possibility of improving seed quality stability during storage.
Methods: The experiment was conducted as a four‑factor factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with three replications. The studied factors were storage temperature (15, 25, and 35°C), seed moisture content (9, 12, and 15%), Pix concentration (0, 3000, and 4500 mg L-1), and storage duration (30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 days). After the storage period, seed physiological traits including germination percentage and rate, root and shoot length, seedling dry weight, vigor index, α‑amylase activity, and electrolyte leakage were measured.
Results: Increasing temperature, moisture, and storage duration accelerated seed aging. After 180 days, electrolyte leakage in control seeds increased from 21.47 to 72.72% when storage temperature rose from 15 to 25°C (at 9% moisture), indicating a 54% increase in membrane leakage, while Pix at 3000 mg/L reduced it by 19–80%. α-amylase activity decreased with seed deterioration, but Pix at 3000 mg/L maintained the highest enzyme activity (15.5 vs. 16.3 nmol seed-1min-1 after 180 days). Germination percentage and rate, seedling length and dry weight, and vigor index also declined with aging; however, Pix treatment, especially at 3000 mg L-1, significantly moderated these reductions.
Conclusions: Storage at high temperature and moisture accelerated sesame seed deterioration, reducing germination and α‑amylase activity while increasing membrane damage. Pix at 3000 mg L-1 was the most effective treatment, maintaining seed vigor and enzyme activity and reducing electrolyte leakage. Therefore, seed treatment with 3000 mg L-1 Pix before storage, especially at 15°C and 9% moisture content, can be recommended as an effective strategy to extend seed longevity and maintain quality during medium term storage.
Highlights:
Methods: The experiment was conducted as a four‑factor factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design with three replications. The studied factors were storage temperature (15, 25, and 35°C), seed moisture content (9, 12, and 15%), Pix concentration (0, 3000, and 4500 mg L-1), and storage duration (30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 days). After the storage period, seed physiological traits including germination percentage and rate, root and shoot length, seedling dry weight, vigor index, α‑amylase activity, and electrolyte leakage were measured.
Results: Increasing temperature, moisture, and storage duration accelerated seed aging. After 180 days, electrolyte leakage in control seeds increased from 21.47 to 72.72% when storage temperature rose from 15 to 25°C (at 9% moisture), indicating a 54% increase in membrane leakage, while Pix at 3000 mg/L reduced it by 19–80%. α-amylase activity decreased with seed deterioration, but Pix at 3000 mg/L maintained the highest enzyme activity (15.5 vs. 16.3 nmol seed-1min-1 after 180 days). Germination percentage and rate, seedling length and dry weight, and vigor index also declined with aging; however, Pix treatment, especially at 3000 mg L-1, significantly moderated these reductions.
Conclusions: Storage at high temperature and moisture accelerated sesame seed deterioration, reducing germination and α‑amylase activity while increasing membrane damage. Pix at 3000 mg L-1 was the most effective treatment, maintaining seed vigor and enzyme activity and reducing electrolyte leakage. Therefore, seed treatment with 3000 mg L-1 Pix before storage, especially at 15°C and 9% moisture content, can be recommended as an effective strategy to extend seed longevity and maintain quality during medium term storage.
Highlights:
- Pix at 3000 mg/L effectively prevented the decline in physiological traits of sesame seeds during storage and maintained germination potential and seed vigor.
- Increased temperature, moisture, and storage duration reduced α‑amylase activity and increased electrolyte leakage, indicating accelerated physiological seed aging.
- Pix treatment improved seed quality under warm and humid storage conditions by reducing electrolyte leakage and enhancing membrane stability, suggesting its practical application for extending seed longevity.
Shahrzad Ghabeli, Hamidreza Ebrahimi, Hamidreza Miri, Barmak Jafari Haghighi, Abdolreza Jafari,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of temperature, salinity, and seed priming on germination and to determine cardinal germination temperatures (i.e., base, optimum, and maximum) of Camelina seeds.
Method: Experimental treatments included different levels of seed priming (control, hydropriming, priming with gibberellic acid, and brassinosteroid at 50 ppm), salinity (0, 100, and 200 mM), and different temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40°C). To estimate cardinal temperatures, three nonlinear regression models (dent-like, segmented, and beta) were fitted, and their accuracy was evaluated using RMSE, CV, R², and SE criteria.
Results: The results showed that Camelina seed germination was significantly affected by the interaction of temperature, salinity, and priming treatments, and none of these factors could be interpreted independently. The highest germination percentage and rate were obtained at 20°C under non-saline conditions, particularly with the application of gibberellic acid and brassinosteroid at 50 ppm; whereas the combination of high temperatures (especially 35°C) and 200 mM salinity caused a severe reduction or complete inhibition of germination. Hormonal priming, in addition to increasing germination percentage, reduced the time to 50% germination, thereby increasing germination rate, decreasing base temperature, and improving the thermal tolerance range. Among the three models evaluated, based on RMSE, CV, R², and SE criteria, the segmented and dent-like models were the most suitable for estimating the cardinal temperatures of Camelina. The results also showed that the most effective priming treatment was priming with brassinosteroid.
Conclusion: The use of priming, especially with brassinosteroid and gibberellic acid, can be recommended as an effective strategy to improve Camelina seed establishment under salinity stress and temperature fluctuations. The use of nonlinear regression models, including dent-like, segmented, and beta models, can be effectively used to quantify the response of Camelina seed germination to temperature, salinity, and seed priming. Therefore, by utilizing the output of these models across different temperatures, it is possible to predict the germination rate under various priming treatments and salinity levels.
Highlights:
Method: Experimental treatments included different levels of seed priming (control, hydropriming, priming with gibberellic acid, and brassinosteroid at 50 ppm), salinity (0, 100, and 200 mM), and different temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40°C). To estimate cardinal temperatures, three nonlinear regression models (dent-like, segmented, and beta) were fitted, and their accuracy was evaluated using RMSE, CV, R², and SE criteria.
Results: The results showed that Camelina seed germination was significantly affected by the interaction of temperature, salinity, and priming treatments, and none of these factors could be interpreted independently. The highest germination percentage and rate were obtained at 20°C under non-saline conditions, particularly with the application of gibberellic acid and brassinosteroid at 50 ppm; whereas the combination of high temperatures (especially 35°C) and 200 mM salinity caused a severe reduction or complete inhibition of germination. Hormonal priming, in addition to increasing germination percentage, reduced the time to 50% germination, thereby increasing germination rate, decreasing base temperature, and improving the thermal tolerance range. Among the three models evaluated, based on RMSE, CV, R², and SE criteria, the segmented and dent-like models were the most suitable for estimating the cardinal temperatures of Camelina. The results also showed that the most effective priming treatment was priming with brassinosteroid.
Conclusion: The use of priming, especially with brassinosteroid and gibberellic acid, can be recommended as an effective strategy to improve Camelina seed establishment under salinity stress and temperature fluctuations. The use of nonlinear regression models, including dent-like, segmented, and beta models, can be effectively used to quantify the response of Camelina seed germination to temperature, salinity, and seed priming. Therefore, by utilizing the output of these models across different temperatures, it is possible to predict the germination rate under various priming treatments and salinity levels.
Highlights:
- Assessing the combined effects of temperature, salinity, and priming on Camelina seed germination.
- Quantifying the impact of seed priming on cardinal temperatures of Camelina under salinity stress.
- Comparing and selecting the superior nonlinear model (dent-like and segmented) for estimating Camelina cardinal temperatures under salinity stress and priming.
Akram Oraki, Ehsan Shahbazi, Keramatollah Saeidi, Fariba Rafiei,
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Volume 12, Issue 2 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objective: This study evaluated the effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-induced drought stress on germination traits, seedling growth, and seed vigor across 24 Nigella sativa genotypes to identify drought-tolerant and -sensitive genotypes.
Method: The experiment was a factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications, conducted at the Crop Physiology Laboratory of Shahrekord University. The factors comprised 24 N. sativa genotypes and five drought levels induced by PEG at osmotic potentials of 0 (distilled water, control), -0.2, -0.3, -0.4, and -0.6 MPa. Measured traits included germination percentage and rate, mean germination time, root and shoot length, seedling length, seedling fresh and dry weight, and seed vigor.
Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that genotype, drought, and their interaction significantly affected all germination and early seedling growth traits. The strongest positive correlations were observed between seed vigor and seedling length, seedling length and root length, and seed vigor and root length. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the nine traits identified three components with eigenvalues >1, accounting for 87.91% of the total variance. Based on the PCA biplot and Ward's hierarchical cluster analysis, the genotypes were classified into three groups: tolerant (genotypes 3, 8, 11, 24), semi-tolerant (genotypes 1, 2, 9, 12, 14, 17), and sensitive (the remaining 14). Multivariate tests (Pillai's trace, Wilks' lambda, Hotelling-Lawley trace, and Roy's largest root) confirmed highly significant differences among the three groups (p < 0.01), validating the classification robustness.
Conclusions: The findings reveal significant genetic diversity among N. sativa genotypes under drought stress. Genotypes 3, 8, 11, and 24, which showed superior germination performance, are recommended for future breeding programs. Furthermore, clustering enables the selection of parental lines with greater genetic distance (e.g., tolerant genotype 3 and sensitive genotype 5) for hybridization, facilitating the genetic analysis of drought tolerance mechanisms and supporting trait improvement efforts.
Highlights:
Method: The experiment was a factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications, conducted at the Crop Physiology Laboratory of Shahrekord University. The factors comprised 24 N. sativa genotypes and five drought levels induced by PEG at osmotic potentials of 0 (distilled water, control), -0.2, -0.3, -0.4, and -0.6 MPa. Measured traits included germination percentage and rate, mean germination time, root and shoot length, seedling length, seedling fresh and dry weight, and seed vigor.
Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that genotype, drought, and their interaction significantly affected all germination and early seedling growth traits. The strongest positive correlations were observed between seed vigor and seedling length, seedling length and root length, and seed vigor and root length. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the nine traits identified three components with eigenvalues >1, accounting for 87.91% of the total variance. Based on the PCA biplot and Ward's hierarchical cluster analysis, the genotypes were classified into three groups: tolerant (genotypes 3, 8, 11, 24), semi-tolerant (genotypes 1, 2, 9, 12, 14, 17), and sensitive (the remaining 14). Multivariate tests (Pillai's trace, Wilks' lambda, Hotelling-Lawley trace, and Roy's largest root) confirmed highly significant differences among the three groups (p < 0.01), validating the classification robustness.
Conclusions: The findings reveal significant genetic diversity among N. sativa genotypes under drought stress. Genotypes 3, 8, 11, and 24, which showed superior germination performance, are recommended for future breeding programs. Furthermore, clustering enables the selection of parental lines with greater genetic distance (e.g., tolerant genotype 3 and sensitive genotype 5) for hybridization, facilitating the genetic analysis of drought tolerance mechanisms and supporting trait improvement efforts.
Highlights:
- Rapid, cost-effective PEG screening replaces field selection
- Root length as a reliable indicator of seed vigor
- Identifying 4 superior Nigella genotypes for drought tolerance
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Seed Science and Technology, Seed Physiology, Seed Ecology, Modeling, Seed Health, Germination Characteristics, Seed Dormancy, Seed Ageing, Seed Storage, Seed PrimingVote
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