Effect of seed priming on seed vigor and early seedling growth in maize under optimal and suboptimal temperature conditions

Abstract

Low temperature has a negative effect on germination parameters and early seedling growth. Seed priming is a beneficial pre-sowing treatment that partially hydrates the seeds to the point of germination process initiation, followed by drying which prevents radicle protrusion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different seed priming treatments on some maize seed vigor and early seedlings growth parameters at different temperature conditions. Seeds were primed in water (hydropriming) and KNO3 solution (0,1% and 0,5%) at 25°C for 17 h. Germination was tested at 25°C, 15/25°C and 15°C. Seed priming treatments had more improving effects on studied seed and seedlings traits under suboptimal (15°C and 15/25°C) than at optimal temperature conditions. Seed priming treatment with 0,5% KNO3 had the most beneficial effects and increased the most of studied parameters under suboptimal conditions. Seed priming with KNO3 could be used to achieve higher seed vigor and seedling growth at suboptimal temperature conditions in maize.