Germination rate of maize (Zea mays L.) Kernels. I. Relationships with kernel properties and water uptake

Abstract

Relationships were sought between germination rate and various kernel variables of 12 freshly harvested, undeteriorated seed lots of maize. Germination rate was positively correlated with water content of kernels at all sampling times up to 30 h of incubation and with water content of embryos only during the early hours of incubation. A highly significant negative correlation was found between germination rate and endosperm: embryo ratio. Germination rate was not significantly related to kernel mass. The results suggest that hydration rate of kernels, and especially hydration rate of embryos during the early hours of incubation, may be important determinants of relative germination rates of kernels of freshly harvested, undeteriorated seed lots of maize. © 1988 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.