A review on biopriming in vegetable crops for yield and quality traits

Abstract

The use of micro-organisms to improve yield and quality parameters in crop plants is the basis of biopriming treatment in different crop plants. Inoculation of microbes to hydrated seeds initiates metabolic activities without actual germination. The micro-organisms multiplying on the seed stimulate the release of growth hormones and volatile compounds by plants, improve the availability of nutrients in the soil and initiate defence signals in stress conditions. Ultimately, better quality and higher yield is obtained by increased nutrient use efficiency, enhanced tolerance of plants against various biotic and abiotic stresses and improved physiological and morphological traits in different vegetable crops. Among various methods of microbe application, priming treatment was found to be a promising technique. It also reduces the use of chemicals and their harmful effects. Therefore, biopriming can be effectively used as a simple and inexpensive substitute to other seed treatment methods for crop improvement. Here in this review, different microbes and their potential use as growth and development stimulators through priming treatment in the vegetable are discussed.