EFFECTS OF A BRIEF MAGNETIC EXPOSURE ON CEREAL GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH

Abstract

The effects of magnetic treatment (0–4,000 gauss) on dry seeds of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. and Triticum durum Desf.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and wild oats (Avena fatua L.) were investigated under controlled environment conditions. Exposure of dry seeds of wheat, barley and wild oats to a magnetic field had no effect on germination and seedling growth. The emergence rate of Neepawa wheat and Hercules durum was unaffected by exposure of seed to a field strength of 0,375 and 4,000 gauss. However, exposure of barley seeds imbibed for 10 h prior to treatment reduced seedling growth rate. Exposure of dry seeds of barley and wheat to 0 and 375 gauss had no effect on water imbibition or leakage of cellular electrolytes.