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The study was undertaken for two consecutive years (2017 and 2018) to evaluate the effect of different growth media on various growing parameters and incidence of insect pest on brinjal and chilli seedlings. Seedlings were grown in protray using six types of growing media. The highest germination percentage (71.11), plant height (11.05 cm), number of leaves (5.81) and percentage healthy seedlings (89.82) were observed with vermiculite + perlite + vermi- compost (1:1:2) during both the years in brinjal. Similarly in chilli, highest germination percentage (66.33), plant height (9.81 cm), number of leaves (5.62) and percentage healthy seedlings (87.61) were observed with vermiculite + perlite + vermi-compost (1:1:2). There was significantly low incidence of whitefly in brinjal (1.49 whitefly/leaf) and chilli (1.65 whitefly/ leaf) seedling grown in media with vermiculite + perlite + vermi-compost (1:1:2). Hence, vermiculite + perlite + vermi-compost (1:1:2) was found as optimum growth media for growing of chilli and brinjal seedlings. The findings of this study recommend the use of vermiculite + perlite + vermi-compost (1:1:2) as growth media for raising nursery by farmers as it had significant positively effect on plant growth parameters of seedlings that lead to increase production of chilli and brinjal.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Hu and W. C. Cheng, as the only surviving relict species of the Taxodiaceae Metasequoia genus, is a critically endangered and protected species in China. There is a risk of extinction due to the low vigor of M. glyptostroboides seeds, and the physiological mechanism of seed aging in M. glyptostroboides is not yet clear. In order to investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the aging process of M. glyptostroboides seeds, we analyzed the antioxidant system and transcriptome at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after artificial accelerated aging treatment at 40 °C and 100% relative humidity. It was found that the germination percentage of fresh dried M. glyptostroboides seeds was 54 ± 5.29%, and significantly declined to 9.33 ± 1.88% after 6 days of aging, and then gradually decreased until the seed died on day 8. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, ascorbic acid (AsA), glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide anion (O2·−) content and production rate significantly decreased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and catalase (CAT) activity gradually increased during the aging process. A total of 42,189 unigenes were identified in the whole transcriptome, and 40,446 (95.86%) unigenes were annotated in at least one protein database. A total of 15,376 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained; KEGG enrichment analysis results revealed that seed aging may be mainly involved in the protein-processing pathways in endoplasmic reticulum, oxidative phosphorylation, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that the dark magenta, orange, and medium purple modules were highly correlated with physiological indicators such as SOD, CAT, and GSH and further identified 40 hub genes such as Rboh, ACO, HSF, and CML as playing important roles in the antioxidant network of M. glyptostroboides seeds. These findings provide a broader perspective for studying the regulatory mechanism of seed aging and a large number of potential target genes for the breeding of other endangered gymnosperms.

Introduction: The internal factors of seeds and the conditions outside the seeds can affect the germination and emergence of seeds. In some cases, environmental conditions are suitable for seed to germinate, while the seeds do no seed dormancy which is regarded to be one of the factors in seed survival. Seeds are exposed to different conditions of temperature fluctuations, moisture fluctuations, activity of microorganisms, etc. by being located at different depths of the soil. For instance, seeds that are located in the surface layers of the soil are more exposed to soil moisture fluctuations, which may also affect their dormancy. The results of various experiments have shown that in addition to the depth of burial of seeds, their burial time also affects their germination. Due to the fact that no experiments have been performed on the germination of myagrum weed seeds in this field, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of time and burial depth on breaking seed dormancy and percentage of germination of myagrum. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to investigate the effect of burial time and burial depth on breaking seed dormancy and germination of myagrum seeds in factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with 4 replications in the research farm of Razi University of Kermanshah in 2014-2015. Experimental factors include burial time (270, 360 and 420 days), burial depth (0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 cm), temperature (25 ° C, 5/10 and 10/20 °C variable temperature) and light (light and dark). In June 2014, myagrum seeds were collected from plants that had become mature and were in the full mature stage stored in plastic nylon at 25 °C until the seeds were tested. At the beginning of the experiment, the seeds were packed in lace bags that had small pores from which the seeds could not exit and then placed at different depths of the farm soil. 340 seeds were placed in each lace bag. The lace bags were such that the seeds were exposed to the moisture, temperature and chemical regimes of the soil. To make it easier to exit the lace bags from the soil, a thread was attached to each bag that was placed on the soil surface. After each level of burial time in the soil (270, 360 and 420 days), lace bags were exited from different depths. Firstly, the number of germinated seeds in each lace bag was counted and the germination percentage was calculated. Germinated seeds were then removed from the bags and the residual of seeds was transferred to the Agriculture Laboratory of the Agricultural and Natural Resources Campus of Razi University. The results of Mondani et al. (16) study showed that myagrum seeds have physiological dormancy and mechanical dormancy due to hard outer shell. Therefore, seeds do not germinate included damaged seeds and seeds had physiological dormancy and mechanical dormancy. Extracted seeds (not germinated seeds) from different depths in each burial time were disinfected in sodium hypochlorite solution (2%) for ten minutes. Then, to ensure the viability of the seeds, a number of seeds of any depth were randomly selected and tested using tetrazolium solution (0.1%). The appearance of red color indicated the existence of respiration and viability of the seeds (13). To remove the mechanical dormancy caused by the hard outer shell in the seeds, the outer shell of the seeds was removed and then the seeds were placed in sterile petri dish with a diameter of 7 cm containing Whatman No. 1 filter paper and 5 ml of distilled water (30 seeds were placed in per petri dish) and to prevent water evaporation, the petri dishes were closed with parafilm. The petri dishes were then exposed to different temperatures (25 °C, 5/10 and 10/20 °C variable temperature) inside the germinator and in light and dark conditions. To exert the effect of darkness, petri dishes were wrapped in an aluminum foil. After 14 days, the number of germinated seeds in each petri dish was counted. Germination criterion was visible root exit. Finally, data analysis was performed by SAS (version 9.4) software and mean comparisons were performed based on Duncan at 5% probability. Results and Discussion: The results showed the germination percentage of myagrum weed seeds in light and dark were not significantly difference, and also seed burial time, temperature, burial depth and burial time * temperature interaction had a significant effect (p ≤ 0.01) on the germination percentage. The highest germination percentage was observed after 420 days of burial at a variable temperature of 10/20 °C. Also, at the soil surface and with the increasing seed burial depth (more than 5 cm) the survival and seed germination percentage decreased compared to soil depth of 5 cm because seeds need special moisture and temperature conditions for germination. According to the results, these conditions existed at a depth of 5 cm in the soil, so it can be concluded that deep plowing and going -deep seeds may help to manage this weed. Conclusion: Considering that the highest germination percentage was observed in the temperature regime of 10/20 °C, it can be assumed that this weed can be problematic in summer and autumn crops because this temperature range synchronizes in late winter and early spring. On the other hand, it is possible to control this weed in wheat fields. In fact, in wheat fields, herbicides such as 2,4-D and MCPA are used to control broad-leaf weeds in late March and early April, when the temperature is about 10/20 ° C and the time of germination and emergence of myagrum is used. However, if this weed appears in chickpea fields, it is difficult to control because there is no specific herbicide in chickpea fields to control broadleaf weeds, including myagrum. Also, as the depth of burial increased, the germination percentage of the seeds decreased, so deep plowing and deepening of the seeds may help to manage this weed.

This study investigated changes in the germination rate and germination percentage of seeds obtained from closed pine cones (Pinus brutia Ten.) of different ages collected at different altitudes. The seeds used in the study were obtained from closed cones (3/control, 4, 5, 6, and 7 years old) in the lower (0-200 m) and higher (800-1000 m) altitude zones of the Mersin-Anamur region in a section from the sea to the interior. The seeds germinated in the dark at a constant temperature of 20 °C for 28 days. At the end of the germination test, a two-way analysis of variance was performed on the germination percentage data on the 10th, 14th, and 28th days, and the interactions between altitude and cone age were found to be significant (p = 0.05). As a result of the significant interaction between the two groups, the mean separation test (Tukey test) showed that the highest germination rate was 89.0% in the control group, and the lowest was 77.5% in the 7-year-old cones. In the higher altitude zone, the highest germination rate was 74.0% and the lowest was 71.0%, obtained from 5- and 7-year-old seeds, respectively. In general, germination values in the lower altitude zone were higher than those in the higher altitude zone. However, the decrease in germination values from the control to the 7-year-old seeds was greater in the lower altitude zone than in the higher altitude zone. The study found that altitude was more effective than cone age on the germination rate and percentage., U ovom istraživanju analizirane su promjene u stopi klijavosti i postotku klijavosti sjemena iz zatvorenih češera Pinus brutia Ten. različite starosti, sakupljenih na različitim nadmorskim visinama. Sjeme korišteno u istraživanju dobiveno je iz zatvorenih češera (3/kontrola, 4, 5, 6 i 7 godina starosti) u nižim (0-200 m) i višim (800-1000 m) visinskim zonama Mersin- Anamurske regije rasprostranjenih od mora prema unutrašnjosti. Sjeme je klijalo u mraku pri konstantnoj temperaturi od 20 °C 28 dana. Na kraju testa klijavosti provedena je dvostruka analiza varijance o postotku klijavosti 10., 14. i 28. dana, te je utvrđeno da su interakcije između nadmorske visine i starosti češera značajne (p = 0,05). Kao rezultat značajne interakcije između dviju skupina, srednji test razdvajanja (Tukey test) pokazao je da je najveća klijavost bila 89,0% u kontrolnoj skupini, a najniža 77,5% u 7-godišnjim češerima. U zoni viših nadmorskih visina najveća klijavost iznosila je 74,0%, a najmanja 71,0%. Dobivena je iz sjemena starih 5 odnosno 7 godina. Općenito, vrijednosti klijavosti u zoni niže nadmorske visine bile su veće od onih u zoni više nadmorske visine. Međutim, smanjenje vrijednosti klijavosti od kontrolnog do 7-godišnjeg sjemena bilo je veće u zoni niže nadmorske visine nego u zoni više nadmorske visine. Studija je pokazala da je na stopu klijanja i postotak, nadmorska visina učinkovitija od starosti češera.

Thai Science and Technology Journal, 31, 1, 40-49

Heavy metals are the elements that are present in the environment naturally, with the development of industries in the world, there is a drastic increase of heavy metals in the biosphere. Among the heavy metals, lead (Pb) is the most toxic metal that easily gets accumulated in the soil and sediments. Lead is not an important element for plant growth but it gets easily absorbed and accumulated in different parts of the plant. In this study, Setaria italica (foxtail millet - CO (Te) 7) is treated with different concentrations of lead to evaluate the changes in the morphological growth parameters such as rate of percentage of germination, Tolerance Index (TI) and phytotoxicity. The germination percentage is comparatively greater in the control plant and gradually decreases as the concentration of Pb increases. The length of root and shoot, the amount of fresh weight and dry weight also decrease with the increase in the concentration of heavy metals. The root length and shoot length in the control on the 45th day were 20.2±0.16 and 48.7±0.24 whereas in the maximum concentration of metal (250 mg/kg) it showed a minimum reading of 11.1±0.43 and 27.3±0.33 respectively. The percentage of phytotoxicity increases as the concentration of the metal increases. Tolerance indices decrease as the percentage of phytotoxicity increases.

The degrees of adaptive responses of different halophytes to saline–alkali soil vary substantially. Kalidium (Amaranthaceae), a genus comprised of six species of succulent euhalophytes with significantly differing distributions in China, provides ideal material for exploring the ecophysiological relationships involved in these variations. Thus, in a large-scale field survey in 2014–2018, samples of soil (at 20 cm depth intervals spanning 0 to 100 cm) and seeds were collected from areas where these six species are naturally distributed. Chemical properties of soils in the areas and germinability of the species’ seeds in media with 0–500 mM NaCl and 0–250 mM Na2SO4 were then analyzed to test effects of salinity-related factors on the species’ distributions. The pH of the soil samples mainly ranged between 8.5 and 10.5 and positively correlated with their mean total salt contents. Germination rates of all six species’ seeds were negatively correlated with concentrations of NaCl and Na2SO4 in the media, and their recovery germination rates in distilled water were high (>74%). The results show that the species’ distributions and chemical properties of their saline soils are strongly correlated, notably the dominant cation at all sites is Na+, but the dominant anions at K. cuspidatum and K. caspicum sites are Cl− and SO42−, respectively. Species-associated variations in concentrations of Ca2+ were also detected. Thus, our results provide clear indications of major pedological determinants of the species’ geographic ranges and strong genotype-environment interactions among Kalidium species.

The caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a perennial plant characteristic of the Mediterranean region that presents difficulties in its propagation, both vegetatively and by seeds. The main aim of this study is to provide collection guidelines to achieve a viable caper commercial propagation, for which three experiments were undertaken to determine the viability and germination in different seed lots. In the first experiment, commercial and own produced seeds (collected with the same criteria as commercial seeds) were analysed; the commercial seeds presented the lowest viability and germination. The second experiment analysed the effect of the fruit (from which the seeds were extracted) at its maturation stage, obtaining the lowest seed viability and germination in the seeds extracted from the dry fruits. In the third experiment, seed viability and germination were analysed immediately after collection, following a short drying period (3 d), and after six storage months. Viability and germination decreased with seed storage. Overall, it can be stated that caper seeds are sensitive to desiccation; consequently, a general rule of thumb is to collect the fruits once a week, to extract the seeds, and to plant them immediately for germination.

Bauhinia monandra Kurz has ornamental characteristics as the shape of its crown and the exuberance of its flowering, being and is widely cultivated in urban afforestation in Brazilian regions. The production of forest seedlings is essential not only to meet the demand of urban afforestation, but also to conserve forests. However, studies on B. monandra regarding the degree of fruit maturity on seed performance are scarce. Thus, the objective of the current work was to verify the germination potential of B. monandra seeds at different stages of maturation at five constant temperatures. The germination percentage, germination speed index (GSI), mean germination time (t), relative germination frequency, and mean germination speed (MGS) were evaluated. Initially, the mature seeds had a water content of 8.5% and the immature seeds of 68.3%. Mature seeds reached high germination percentages, above 96% for temperatures of 25, 30, and 35 ºC. The immature seeds demonstrated low germination percentages, reaching the highest percentage of 33% for the temperature of 25 ºC, followed by the temperatures of 30 ºC and 35 ºC, with respective percentages of 32% and 20%. Mature seeds demonstrated the highest GSI value (11.79) for the estimated temperature of 26.94 ºC and immature seeds the highest value of t (7.85) for the temperature of 26.56 ºC. It is concluded that mature seeds aggregate higher germination at an estimated temperature of 24.72 ºC and that immature seeds present unsatisfactory germination performance. Resumo Bauhinia monandra Kurz possui características ornamentais como a forma de sua copa e a exuberância de sua floração, sendo amplamente cultivada na arborização urbana nas regiões brasileiras. A produção de mudas florestais é essencial não somente para atender à demanda da arborização urbana, mas também a conservação das florestas. No entanto, são escassos os estudos de B. monandra quanto ao grau de maturidade dos frutos no desempenho das sementes. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho foi verificar o potencial germinativo de sementes de B. monandra de diferentes estádios de maturação em cinco temperaturas constantes. Foram avaliados o percentual de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), tempo médio de germinação (t), frequência relativa de germinação e velocidade média de germinação (VMG). Inicialmente as sementes maduras possuíam teor de água de 8,5% e as imaturas de 68,3%. As sementes maduras atingiram altos percentuais de germinação, superiores a 96% para as temperaturas de 25, 30 e 35ºC. As sementes imaturas atingiram um percentual baixo de germinação, atingindo o maior percentual de 33% para a temperatura de 25 ºC, seguido pelas temperaturas de 30 ºC e 35 ºC, com percentuais respectivos de 32% e 20%. As sementes maduras lograram o maior valor de IVG (11,79) para a temperatura estimada de 26,94 ºC e as sementes imaturas o maior valor de t (7,85) para a temperatura de 26,56 ºC. Conclui-se que sementes maduras agregam maior germinação sob a temperatura estimada de 24,72 ºC e que as sementes imaturas tiveram desempenho insatisfatório na germinação.

Dormancy is a condition in which seeds do not germinate despite the provision of suitable growth conditions. This study assessed germination percentage and germination rates of Mimosa pigra using different pre-sowing treatments. Seeds were sown in white plastic buckets filled with loose and well-drained river sand at a sowing depth of 3 cm. Bucket diameter was 22 cm and bucket depth from base to the brim was 24 cm. Four replicates of 100 randomly picked seeds at 25 seeds per bucket were used for each treatment and the buckets were laid out in a complete randomized design. Viable seeds determined by floatation method were subjected to pre-sowing treatments using control, 98% concentrated Sulphuric acid, hot water (wet heat) and physical abrasion for 40, 80 and 120 seconds. Data were subjected to statistical analysis. Results showed that physical abrasion resulted in the highest germination percentage of 74 to 83% and the lowest mean emergence time of 6 and 7 days while the control resulted in 16% germination rate and a mean emergence time of 23 days. Therefore, physical scarification is recommended for the propagation of Mimosa pigra for its medicinal use.

Oil palm (E. guineensis) is native to Africa and among highest oilseeds crop in the world, having a dormant seeds which require pre-treatments to quicken the germination process. The objective of this experiment is to evaluate the effects of Vimpel growth regulator on germination of Oil palm seedlings. The viable seeds of oil palm were treated with vimpel solution at different stages of the germination process tagged as A (+ Vimpel before heat), B (+Vimpel after heat), C (+Vimpel without heat) D (0 vimpel) E (+ Vimpel prior and after heat) and F (Water prior and after heating/Control) and then subjected to six different temperature regime i.e. 2,4,6,8, 10 and 12 weeks in the germination chamber. The result indicates that group A had the highest germination percentage at 10 weeks of heat treatment followed by B at 8 weeks of temperature while group F (control) had the lowest percentage. Conclusively, the vimpel growth regulator has significant effects in facilitating the germination process by 40 days against 80 days of heat treatment currently use in the oil palm seed germination.

Background. Chufa is one of the most promising rare oilseed crops. The issues of preserving and obtaining highquality seed material are very important. The development of long-term genebank storage techniques for chufa nodules is a pressing task.Materials and methods. We studied 18 chufa germplasm accessions of various origin. The field study was conducted in 2010–2012 under the environmental conditions of Krasnodar Territory, Russia. Protein and oil content was analyzed according to the guidelines on the methods of quality control and safety of bioactive food additives (R 4.1.1672-03…, 2004); vitamin E according to the guidelines on the methods of analyzing the quality and safety of food products (Skurikhin, Tutelyan, 1987); fatty acid composition in line with IUPAC (1979) and GOST R 512677-2006, using an IIRGCS chromatograph.Results and conclusions. The study of valuable agronomic characters in chufa accessions showed that the height of plants varied from 49 to 69 cm; the number of nodules per plant from 80 to 110 pcs; the weight of nodules per plant from 18 to 49 g; the weight of nodules per plot (1 m2 ) from 101 to 393 g. Their oil content varied from 13.1 to 21.06 g/100 g, and protein content from 6 to 10%. Chufa accessions contained large amount of vitamin E: 19.23 to 35.23 mg/100 g. The content of saturated fatty acids in chufa oil was 17.75 to 20.99%, monounsaturated fatty acids from 68.21 to 71.55%, and polyunsaturated fatty acids from 9.94 to 12.17%. A technique of preparing chufa nodules for long-term storage was developed. The optimal time to assess germination energy is four days, with 11 days for germination percentage. Storage of chufa nodules for three years at a temperature of +20°C causes a decrease in their germination by 15–16%. When stored under low positive (+4°C) or negative temperatures (–18°C and –196°C), their germination percentage remained unchanged.

This study was carried out to determine the effects of different salt concentrations on germination and seedling growth of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor var. saccharatum (L.) Mohlenbr.] cultivars. The research was carried out under laboratory conditions and sweet sorghum cultivars Ulusoy, Sorge, Biomarlı, Erdurmuş, and Gülşeker were used as plant material. Five different sweet sorghum cultivars and four different salt (NaCl) concentrations (0-, 100-, 200-, and 300 mM) were the subjects of the laboratory experiments which was set up in randomized plots in a factorial design with 4 replications. In the study, germination parameters such as germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), germination index (GI), coefficient of uniformity of germination (CUG) and germination speed (GS), and seedling growth parameters such as root and shoot fresh weight, root and shoot dry weight, root and shoot length, lateral root number and lateral root length were investigated. As a result of the research, it was determined that the germination and seedling growth parameters (excluding MGT) decreased as salt concentration increased. This decrease in germination characteristics was significant at 100 mM salt dose according to the average values of the cultivars, and it was observed that the cultivars were more sensitive to salt stress in the seedling development stage than the germination stage. In the study, it was determined that there were significant differences between sweet sorghum genotypes under salt-stressed conditions during germination and seedling stages. In this sense, Ulusoy and Erdurmuş sweet sorghum cultivars were prominent in terms of salt tolerance. It is important to use salt tolerant cultivars considering the genotypic differences in sweet sorghum cultivation in salt-affected areas.

IntroductionDrought is one of the most common environmental stresses that contributes to the growth and development of plants and is a major factor in reducing the production of products. Priming is a simple technique that improves seedling establishment and plant efficiency in farms. Seed priming has proved beneficial in improving the germination metabolism and early stand establishment of crops under normal and stress conditions .Salicylic acid (SA) plays an important role in abiotic stress tolerance, and more interests have been focused on SA due to its ability to induce a protective effect on plants under adverse environmental conditions. salicylic acid (SA), an endogenous plant growth regulator has been found to generate a wide range of metabolic and physiological responses in plants thereby affecting their growth and development. Quinoa is a grain-like plant with high nutritional value and tolerance to abiotic stresses such as heat, cold and drought stress. Food quinoa importance due to the perfect combination of amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, iron and sodium low. Materials and methodsThus in order to investigate the effect of Salicylic acid pre-treatment on germination indices of quinoa plant under drought stress, a factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications in Seed Technology Laboratory, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Shahed University in 1397.The experimental factors Includes salicylic acid at four levels (0, 50, 100 and 150 mM) and drought stress caused by polyethylene glycol at four levels (0, -4-, 8-, -12 bar) and the quinoa plant varieties (cultivars and varieties Giza1 Titicaca). The measured traits including germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), germination speed (GR), and germination coefficient (GC), SVI: seedling longitudinal index, SVI: weight index of seedling bud, root length, stem length, stem fresh weight, stem fresh root and seedling dry weight, and changes in the amount of photosynthetic pigments. Statistical analysis of the data included analysis of variance using AS 9.1 software and comparison of mean of traits evaluated by LSD test at 5% probability level. Results Analysis of variance showed that salicylic acid pre-treatment, drought stress and their interaction had a significant effect on germination indices and photosynthetic pigmentation and medicinal plant varieties quinoa. With increasing drought stress, the germination characteristics of quinoa plants decreased and the use of salicylic acid improved the seed germination properties of quinoa seeds and salicylic acid application improved germination characteristics of quinoa seeds. The highest germination percentage (98 percent) and its effective traits were obtained from seed soaking with salicylic acid with maximum concentration (1.5 mM) and low levels of drought stress. Longitudinal index and weight of seedling vigor was decreased at high concentrations of salicylic acid and high levels of drought stress. On the other hand, consumption of one and one and a half mM of salicylic acid increased the amount of chlorophyll and carotenoids and increased tolerance of this plant to drought stress. The highest amounts of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll were observed under drought stress conditions and 1.5 mol / mol of salicylic acid and Titicaca cultivar.

Introduction One of the most important stages in the life cycle is germination, which is controlled by various environmental and genetic factors. Temperature and water potential are the most important factors in germination control. Different models for quantization of germination response to temperature and osmotic potential have been used. Quantification of germination response to osmotic potential and temperature is possible using non-liner regression models. Therefore, this research was carried out to determine the cardinal temperature of germination (base temperature, optimum and maximum germination) of safflower of Sofeh cultivar under different osmotic stress (drought stress) conditions and seed deterioration. Material and methods In this study germination response to water potential in different temperature were studied. Treatments included osmotic levels (0, -0.4 and -0.8 MPa), temperature (5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 35 and 40 °C) and seed deterioration (0 and 5 days). Ccumulative germination response of seeds to differential water potential and temperature were quantified using three-parameter sigmoidal model. For quantifying response of germination rate to temperature for different osmotic potential were used of 3 non-linear regression models (segmented, dent-like and beta). The root mean square of errors (RMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), CV and SE for relationship between the observed and the predicted germination percentage were used to select the superior model from among the employed methods. Germination percentage and time to 50% maximum seed germination of safflower were calculated for the different temperatures and osmotic potential by fitting 3-parameter sigmoidal functions to cumulative germination data. Results Results indicated that temperature in addition to germination percentage also on germination rate was effective. Also results showed that germination percentage and germination rate increased with increasing temperature, while germination percentage and germination rate reduced as a result of water potential increment. Results indicated that under different osmotic potential as 0, -0.4 and -0.8 MPa, the segmented model estimated base temperature as 2.23, 3.67 and 4.33 °C, the dent model estimated base temperature as 3, 3.96 and 4.33 °C, the beta model estimated base temperature as -1.22, -1.28 and -2.28 °C, the segmented model estimated optimum temperature as 23.05, 25.44 and 24.19 °C, the optimum temperature using beta model as 28.89, 28.99 and 26.46 °C, the dent-like model estimated lower limit of optimum temperature and upper limit of optimum temperature as 21.12, 21.92 and 20.16 and 30.07, 25 and 23.27 °C, ceiling temperature using segmented model were 40, 40 and 35 °C, using dent-like model were 40, 39.83 and 35 °C, using beta model were 40, 35 and 34.82 °C, the segmented model estimated fo as 23.02, 69.51 and 84.17 h, the dent-like model estimated as 27, 75.99 and 83.87 h and using beta model were 26.09, 75.09 and 103.41 h, respectively. In compared 3 models according to the root mean square of errors (RMSE) of germination time, the coefficient of determination (R2), CV and SE the best model for determination of cardinal temperatures of seed control of safflower for 0 MPa was dent-like model and for -0.4 and -0.8 MPa was segmented model and for seed deterioration of safflower in all osmotic potential was segmented model. In general, results indicated that lower limit of optimum temperature and upper limit of optimum temperature and ceiling temperature reduced but fo increased as a result of water potential increment. Conclusion Germination of safflower response to different temperatures and osmotic potentials, led to acceptable results. Utilizing the output of non-liner models at different temperatures can be useful in prediction of germination rate in different water potential.

Many studies have focused on how leaf litter depth affects seed germination and seedling growth because the seedling stage is the most vulnerable portion of a plant’s life cycle. Invasive plants with the most severe ecological consequences are those that modify ecosystems, and this can occur through the formation of thick litter layers which can suppress the emergence, survival, and recruitment of native plant seedlings; in addition, in some cases, these litter layers can suppress invasive plant seedling recruitment. Prosopis juliflora is a thorny shrub that is native to arid and semi-arid portions of North America, parts of South America, and the Caribbean. It has invaded millions of hectares around the world, including Saudi Arabia. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether P. juliflora leaf litter reduces the recruitment of its own seedlings under greenhouse and field conditions in Saudi Arabia. In both the greenhouse and the field, the number of days to first emergence increased and germination percentage decreased with increasing litter depth. With the 1, 2, and 4 cm litter depth treatments, the number of viable seeds generally decreased, with no emergence, germination, or viable seeds detected for the 8 cm litter depth treatment. Results of this study reveal that increasing the depth of P. juliflora leaf litter suppresses the survival and recruitment of its own seedlings. Future search should assess the actual mechanisms through which P. juliflora seeds are suppressed, the role of allelopathic compounds in this process, and whether viable seeds are dormant and will persist in the soil seed bank.

Langusei (Ficus minahassae (Teysm.et.Vr.) Miq) is one of the endemic flora of Sulawesi which existence is increasingly threatened. Attempts to maintain the existence of Ficus minahassae species by understanding the cultivation techniques of the Langusei species, especially regarding the appropriate germination techniques, need to be addressed. This study aims to determine the level of fruit maturity and the appropriate extraction treatment for the germination of Langusei seeds. The experimental design used in this study was a complete randomization design which is arranged in a factorial pattern. The first factor is the classification of the level of seed maturity based on fruit color categories: 1) Orange-brown fruit, 2) Orange-reddish fruit, 3) Red fruit, and 4) Red-black fruit, while the second factor is the fruit extraction treatment which consists of: 1) Extraction with dry wind treatment for 24 hours, 2) Extraction with drying treatment for 12 hours, and 3) Extraction with water treatment for 24 hours. The results showed that the fruit maturity level and the appropriate extraction treatment to produce optimal Langusei seed germination were in the (orange-brown and orange-reddish fruit) (mature fruits prior to ripening) which was soaked in water for 24 hours.

Çalışma kapsamında Ailanthus altisima tohumlarının çimlenmesi üzerine farklı yetiştirme ortamı ve ekim zamanının etkisinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Ailanthus altisima tohumları, doğal tohum döküm zamanı olan Kasım ayı içerisinde KTÜ Kanuni kampüsünde bulunan ağaçlardan elde edilmiştir. Ekim işlemi önceden hazırlanmış özel ve yüksek ekim yastıklarında gerçekleştirilmiştir. Ekim işlemi, özel ekim yastıklarına kasım ve mart ayında, yüksek ekim yastığında ise ocak ayında gerçekleştirilmiştir. Tohumların ekimden önce 1000 tane ağırlıkları belirlenmiştir. Tohumlar, özel ekim yastıklarına kanatlı ve kanatsız olmak üzere iki farklı şekilde, yüksek ekim yastığında ise yalnız kanatlı tohumlar kullanılarak çizgi ekimi yöntemiyle ekilmiştir. Çalışma sonuçlarına göre Kasım ayında kanatlı veya kanatsız şekilde yapılan ekimin çimlenme yüzdesinin değişmesinde etkili olduğu ancak çimlenme için gerekli sıcaklık ve nemin rahatça alınabildiği ilkbahar mevsiminde tohumların kanatlı olup olmamalarının önemli olmadığı ve hemen hemen birbirine yakın çimlenme yüzdelerine (kanatlı tohum ÇY %94,17, kanatsız tohum ÇY %99,45) sahip oldukları saptanmıştır. Ailanthus altissima tohumları için uygun ekim zamanının ilkbahar olduğu tespit edilmiş olup, sonbaharda fidan ihtiyacının karşılanmasında başarılı bir sonucun elde edilebilmesi için ekim işleminin sera koşullarında yapılmasının uygun olacağı ortaya koyulmuştur., Within the scope of the study, it was aimed to determine the effect of different media and sowing time on the germination of Ailanthus altisima seeds. Ailanthus altisima seeds were obtained from the trees in the KTU Kanuni campus in November, which is the natural seed fall time. Sowing was carried out on specially prepared seedbeds. Sowing was carried out on special seedbeds in November and March and on traditional seedbeds in January. The 1000 seed weight was determined before sowing. Seeds were sown on special seedbeds in two different ways as without the pericarp and with pericarp, and by line sowing method using seeds with pericarp on the traditional seedbeds. According to the results of the study, it was determined that sowing seeds with or without pericarp in autumn were effective in on the germination percentage. However, it has been detected that it is not important to sow seeds with or without pericarp in the spring season when the temperature and humidity required for germination can be easily ensured. Both sowing treatments (seed with pericarp 94.17%, seed without pericarp 99.45%) had almost similar germination percentages. It has been determined that the appropriate planting time for Ailanthus altissima seeds is spring in terms of germination percentages, and it has been revealed that sowing under greenhouse conditions would be appropriate in order to meet the need for seedlings in autumn.

Araştırma 4 adet ekmeklik buğday çeşidinin çimlenme özellikleri üzerine farklı kimyasal ve dozlarla yapılan ekim öncesi tohum uygulamalarının etkisini araştırmak amacıyla Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Tarla Bitkileri Bölümü Tohumluk Laboratuvarında tesadüf parsellerinde faktöriyel deneme desenine uygun olarak 3 tekerrürlü olarak yürütülmüştür. Çalışmada 4 adet ekmeklik buğday çeşidi olarak Bezostaja, Esperia, Pehlivan ve Sönmez çeşitleri kullanılmıştır. Çeşitlere, kimyasal uygulamalar Asetik asit, Deniz yosunu ve Giberellik asit kullanılarak yapılmış olup uygulanan dozlar herhangi bir uygulamanın yapılmadığı kontrol dışında 100 ppm ve 300 ppm olarak ayarlanmıştır. Çalışmada çimlenme hızı, çimlenme gücü, sürgün boyu, kök boyu, sürgün yaş ağırlığı, sürgün kuru ağırlığı, kök yaş ağırlığı ve kök kuru ağırlığı değerleri belirlenmiştir. Varyans analizi sonucunda incelenen tüm özellikler açısından denemede kullanılan çeşitler ve kimyasal açısından istatistiki olarak farklılıklar belirlenmiştir. Sürgün uzunluğu özelliği haricinde uygulanan dozların etkisinin incelen diğer özelliklere önemli olduğu belirlenmiştir. Çeşit x kimyasal interaksiyonu bakımından ise kök yaş ağırlığı önemsiz bulunmuş olup çeşit x doz ve kimyasal x doz interaksiyonları ise incelenen tüm özelliklerde istatistiki olarak önemli bulunmuştur. Çeşit x kimyasal x doz interaksiyonu ise çimlenme hızı, çimlenme gücü ve çimlenme yüzdesi özellikleri haricinde diğer tüm özelliklerde önemli olarak belirlenmiştir. Denemede kullanılan çeşitlerde incelenen özelliklere bakımından uygulanan kimyasallardan deniz yosunu ve giberellik asittin ve dozlardan 100 ppm dozunun diğer uygulamalara göre etkilerinin daha fazla olduğu görülmekle beraber çeşitlerin deneme incelenen özelliklerde uygulanan kimyasal ve dozlarına karşı tepkilerinin farklı olduğu belirlenmiştir. Bu nedenle yapılacak ekim öncesi tohum uygulamalarında çeşitlere uygulanması düşünülen kimyasal ve dozlarının belirlenmesinde çeşit x kimyasal x doz etkileşimlerinin göz önünde bulundurulması gerektiği kanısına varılmıştır. The research was carried out with three replications in random plots in Bursa Uludağ University Faculty of Agriculture Department of Field Crops Seed Laboratory in order to investigate the effect of pre-sowing seed applications with different chemicals and doses on the germination properties of 4 bread wheat varieties. In the study, Bezostaja, Esperia, Pehlivan and Sönmez bread wheat varieties were used. Chemical applications to the varieties were made using Acetic acid, Seaweed and Gibberellic acid, and the applied doses were adjusted as 100 ppm and 300 ppm, except for the control where no application was made.In the study, germination rate, germination power, shoot length, root length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight and root dry weight values were determined. As a result of the analysis of variance, statistical differences were determined in terms of the varieties used in the experiment and the chemical in terms of all the properties examined. It was determined that the effect of the doses applied, except for the shoot length feature, was important for the other examined features. In terms of cultivar x chemical interaction, root wet weight was found insignificant, and cultivar x dose and chemical x dose interactions were found statistically significant in all the properties examined. The interaction of cultivar x chemical x dose was determined statistically significant in all other properties except germination rate, germination power and germination percentage. At the end of the research, it was observed that the effects of seaweed and gibberellic acid and doses of 100 ppm from the chemicals applied in terms of the properties examined in the cultivars used in the experiment were higher than the other applications, but it was determined that the reactions of the cultivars to the chemicals and doses applied in the tested properties were different. For this reason, it was concluded that variety x chemical x dose interactions should be taken into account in determining the chemicals and doses to be applied to the cultivars in priming applications.

This study investigated the effects of salicylic acid (SA) on the germination and early seedling growth of Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L., Fabaceae). Pigeon pea were sown in soils containing 5 mg/l, 10 mg/l, 20 mg/l, 30 mg/l and 50 mg/l SA and a control (0 mg/l). The treatment was applied to the plant for 6 weeks from the day of planting. It was observed that the leaflet area increased more in plants that received SA treatment in low concentration (0 mg/l, 5 mg/l, 10 mg/l and 20 mg/l) than in those with higher concentration (30 mg/l and 50 mg/l). The same result was obtained in the total chlorophyll content of the leaves and in average height of the plant (p

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.151.12.2.1575.41 Extended abstract Introduction: Due to their aggressive and competitive habits, weeds inhibit the growth of valuable plants. Interference in plants includes environmental competition and allelopathy (Autotoxicity and hetrotoxicity). In hetrotoxicity, chemical compounds released from plants are able to effect the neighboring plants. Proper management of weeds and the exploitation of their hetrotoxicity potential can reduce losses caused by weeds. This could also represent an effective step towards the reduction of the use of herbicides. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of hetrotoxicity potential of aqueous extract of various organs of Malva sylvestris L. weed on traits of germination and photosynthetic pigments of Echinochloa crus-galli L. Material and Methods: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of hetrotoxicity potential of aqueous extract of Malva sylvestris L. weed including the stem, leaf and flower as well as their mixture on traits of germination and photosynthetic pigments of Echinochloa crus-galli L. as a completely randomized design in three replications in Weeds Science Laboratory of Gonbad Kavous University in 2017. For this experiment, aerial parts of M. sylvestris were first collected at the flowering stage from Ramian field. They were subsequently separated with great care and were powdered. Then from them, 5% suspensions (weight/volume) were prepared, using distilled water. Finally, the extract of each organ of M. sylvestris was added to Petri dishes containing E. crus-galli seeds. After the 7th day, traits such as rate and percentage of germination, radical and shoot elongation, vigor index, total content of chlorophyll a and b and carotenoids were measured. Results: The results showed that various organs of M. sylvestris and their mixture had different inhibitory effects on traits of germination and seedling length of E. crus-galli weed. The highest inhibition effects on rate and germination percentage and elongation of radical and shoot of E. crus-galli were obtained using leaf extract of M. sylvestris about 64.04, 64.37, 87.69, 62.81%. In this study, radical length is more affected under hetrotoxic compounds of various organs of M. sylvestris, as compared with shoot length. Based on the results, various organs of M. sylvestris and their mixture also have different inhibitory effects on chlorophyll and carotenoid content of E. crus-galli weed. It seems that the differential effects among different organs of M. sylvestris are a function of the threshold concentration of allelochemicals to hetrotoxic compounds of the organs, which causes various response by E. crus-galli. Conclusion: Given the evidence for the effect of hetrotoxicity potential of various organs of M. sylvestris on traits of germination and pigments of chlorophyll and carotenoid of E. crus-galli and huge biomass generated, it is advisable to exploit allelochemical compounds of this plant as bio-herbicides. Highlights: 1- Study of the the effect of hetrotoxic potential of Malva sylvestris weed on germination characteristics and photosynthetic pigments of Echinochloa crus-galli in Ramian field. 2- E. crus-galli weed exhibits great sensitivity to hetrotoxic compounds of various organs of M. sylvestris, especially the leaves. 3- Allelopathic characteristics of M. sylvestris weed have huge potentials for the production of bio-herbicides.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.125.12.2.1575.1610 Extended abstract Introduction: Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bert.) is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family of Asteraceae. Stevia is a self-incompatible herb and the seeds resulting from this plant have low germination ability. Steviol glycosides found in this plant are 250-300 times sweeter than sucrose and despite their sweet flavor; they are not absorbed by the body. In general, the poor germination capacity of Stevia seeds is a major impediment for its large-scale cultivation. Priming is one of the seed enhancement techniques that could lead to an increase of germination percentage and germination rate under stress conditions. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of priming with salicylic acid (SA), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) on some germination indices, seedling growth as well as the content of photosynthetic pigments in Stevia under normal and drought stress conditions. Materials and methods: A factorial experiment using a completely randomized design was carried out in the Seed Science and Technology Laboratory of Agricultural College, Shahed University, in 2017. The factors studied comprised four levels of drought stress (0, –0.3, –0.6 and –0.9 MPa) and seven priming combinations with SA, Fe and Zn. Non-primed seeds (dry seeds) were also considered as control. In this experiment, Fe and Zn were supplied by sources of iron (II) sulfate heptahydrate (FeSO4.7H2O, 0.5%) and Zinc sulfate heptahydrate (ZnSO4.7H2O, 0.5%), respectively. The traits examined in this study included germination percentage, radicle length, plumule length, seedling weight vigor index and the content of photosynthetic pigments and carotenoid. Results: The results of this experiment indicated that the plumule length was more sensitive to drought stress, as compared with the root length. With increased intensity of drought stress from 0 to – 0.9 MPa, the content of photosynthetic pigments in Stevia significantly decreased in all the priming treatments, so that the lowest amounts of chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid were observed at the potential of – 0.9 MPa. Priming with SA + Fe + Zn was found to be more effective than other treatments in improving the germination characteristics and the chlorophyll content of Stevia under normal and drought stress conditions. At the highest level of drought stress, germination percentage, radicle length, plumule length, seedling vigor index and total chlorophyll content increased by 55.7, 50.5, 74.3, 90.3 and 85.5%, compared with the control in the concurrent application of Fe, Zn, and SA. Conclusion: In general, seed priming by micronutrient elements (Fe and Zn) and salicylic acid, and particularly their integrated application, could be recommended to increase the resistance of Stevia to drought stress in the germination phase. Highlights: Drought stress at the germination stage has a significant effect on the seedling growth and the content of photosynthetic pigments in Stevia. Seed priming increases drought tolerance of Stevia at the germination stage. The integrated application of SA, Fe, and Zn is more effective than their separate application to alleviate the drought-induced damaging effects.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.1.12.2. 1575.1610 Extended Abstract Introduction: Salinity is one of the most serious abiotic stresses, causing instability in germination and seed emergence due to low osmotic potential and ionic toxicity. Development of simple and low-cost biologic methods is essential for short-term management of salt stress. The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria increases the rate and uniformity of germination. This research aimed to investigate the effect of bacterial growth-promoting bacteria on the germination and seedling growth indices of alfalfa c.v. Hamedani in different salinity levels. Materials and Methods: A CRD factorial experiment with four replications was conducted in Seed Science and Technology Laboratory of Shahrekord University in 2016. The first factor consisted of 6 salinity levels 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 dS/m created with sodium chloride, and the second was four levels of bacterial pre-treatment: no inoculation with bacteria and biopriming, inoculation of alfalfa seeds with Acinetrobacter calcoaceticus PTCC 1318, Bacillus megaterium PTCC 1250 and Enterobacter aerogenes PTCC 1221. The seeds were treated with bacteria and placed at a 20 °C growth chamber. They were then irrigated with desired solutions depending on the salinity treatment. Germinated seeds were counted daily and the parameters of germination percentage and rate, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour index I, II and allometric coefficient were calculated after 10 days. Results: Salinity levels higher than 10 dS/m reduced germination indices and seedling growth of alfalfa. The highest reductions were obtained for 12.5 ds/m salinity level versus control for germination percentage (10.81%), germination rate (49.48%), plumule and radicle length (13.30% and 28.88% respectively) and vigor index I and II, which were 30.27% and 6.28%, respectively. The seed treated with A. calcoaceticus was able to tolerate salinity stresses more than others. For example, the reduction for the seed treated with A. calcoaceticus was only 4%, compared with non-stressed control. In salinity conditions 2.5 and 5 dS/m, the highest rate of germination was obtained, using A. calcoaceticus bacteria. In addition, the seeds treated with E. aerogenes showed higher stability at different levels of salinity for seedling length traits. The highest vigour index related to the use of A. calcoaceticus in salinity was 7.5 ds/m. Conclusions: A. calcoaceticus had a significant role in reducing the negative effects of salinity on germination percentage and rate, vigour index I and II and allometric coefficient while E. aerogenes bacteria were more effective in reducing negative effects of salinity on seedling length and dry weight. Highlights: Acinetrobacter calcoaceticus bacterium increased the percentage and rate of germination of alfalfa seeds under salt stress. Enterobacter aerogenes bacteria efficiently adjusted the negative effects of salinity on alfalfa seedlings length and dry weight.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.137.12.2.1576.1610 Extended abstract Introduction: Pepper (Capsicum annum L.), which belongs to the solanaceae family, is one of the most important vegetable and garden products. Due to its nutritional value, its use tends to rise all over the world. Germination and seed emergence are strongly influenced by environmental stresses such as salinity and drought. Drought stress affects various aspects of plant growth. It reduces germination, delays vegetative growth and reduces dry matter in the plant. Salinity stress, as an environmental stress, is a limiting factor for the growth and development of crops and garden production. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of drought and salinity stress on seed germination characteristics of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) in two separate experiments, using a completely randomized design with three replications in the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand in 2016. PEG 6000 was used for drought stress and NaCl, for salinity stress. The treatments included drought and salinity stress levels (0, -2, -4, -6, -8, -10 and -12 bars). Seeds were disinfected with sodium hypochlorite (2%) solution for 1 minute, and were then washed with distilled water. The medium was petri dishes with a diameter of 9 cm. 25 seeds were placed on two layers of filter papers in each dish. 5 ml of distilled water or solution was added to each petri dish. The measured traits were germination percentage, germination rate, seed vigor index, radicle length, plumule length, ratio of radicle length to plumule length and dry weight of radical and plumule. Results: The results indicated that salinity and drought stress had significant effects on seed germination characteristics of sweet pepper so that salinity stress with osmotic potential of -10 and -12 bar decreased the germination of sweet pepper and reached zero. Increasing salinity stress from zero to -12 bar decreased germination percentage, germination rate and seedling dry weight by 43.75, 41.67 and 93.46%, respectively. The results indicated that with increases in both salinity and drought stress, seed vigor index decreased significantly. The results showed that with increasing drought and salinity stress from 0 to -12 bar, seed vigor index decreased 96.58 and 100 percent, respectively. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the tolerance of sweet pepper to salinity stress was higher than its tolerance to drought stress at the germination stage, but for more accurate evaluation, it is necessary to conduct additional experiments in the field and in the greenhouse. Highlights: 1- Investigation and comparison of germination and seedling growth of sweet peppers under salinity and drought stress. 2- Salinity and drought stress reduce germination indicators of Capsicum annuum.

In the present study two white seeded sesame varieties VRI 3 and SVPR 1 were treated with seven different concentration viz., 0.2 %, 0.4 %, 0.6 %, 0.8 %, 1 %, 1.2 % and 1.4 % of chemical mutagen Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS). Germination percentage and germination index were tested using two different germination methods. Seed germination percentage and germination index was decreased with increased doses of EMS in both the varieties. The higher concentration of EMS completely arrested the seed germination. The optimum dose of the mutagen should be tested to maintain the require plant population in the M1 generation and increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the mutagen. LD 50 value was determined using probit analysis. For SVPR 1 and VRI 3, LD 50 value was found to be 0.36% and 0.44 % respectively. For fixing the lethal dose for the chemical mutagen, Pro tray method of germination test was found to be reliable than germination paper method.

Background. Studying the effect of phytohormones and light on the germination of apple pollen with reduced viability on an artificial nutrient medium is of importance, because it may facilitate an increase in the germination percentage among plant samples promising for breeding after their long-term preservation under low temperatures.Materials and methods. Pollen viability of the apple-tree cultivar ‘Krasnolistnaya’ was measured by germinating it on an artificial nutrient medium containing 10% sucrose solution and 0.8% agar. Drops of a distilled water suspension of pollen with added phytohormones were applied to the surface of the nutrient medium. Pollen was germinated in the dark (24 hours in a thermostat at 21°C) and under light (in an artificial light chamber at 21°C with a photoperiod of 16 hours of light / 8 hours of darkness). Results. Pollen of cv. ‘Krasnolistnaya’ with reduced viability most effectively germinated with the use of gibberellin at a concentration of 1 mg/l and 10 mg/l: the germination percentage was 22.3±0.8% and 21.8±1.3% respectively (сf. 10.9±1.5% in the reference). The most effective combination of phytohormones was gibberellin 10 mg/l + kinetin 10 mg/l – the percentage of germination was 22.8±6.3%; kinetin 1 mg/l + indolylbutyric acid 1 mg/l – the percentage of germination was 17.5±5.9% vs. 10.9±1.5% in the reference.Conclusion. Phytohormones were observed to have a significant effect on the germination of apple pollen with reduced viability. Effective concentrations and combinations of phytohormones that promote the germination of pollen with reduced viability have been identified. Light does not affect the germination of pollen with reduced viability.

The caper is a shrub that adapts to harsh environments when it is established, but it presents serious difficulties in its propagation, both by cuttings and by seeds. Its seeds have low germination percentages, and germination is a very slow process. Significant increases in germination have been obtained with scarification and with the addition of gibberellic acid (GA3) to the substrate, leading to the hypothesis that they have possible physical and physiological dormancy. However, the only way to examine the water-impermeability of the cover is through imbibition analysis. This study analyzes the imbibition, viability, and germination of two seed lots, obtained in different years and evaluated immediately after their collection (FS) and after being stored (7 °C) for one month (DS) and one year (SS). The seed moisture content stabilizes from the fourth day, exceeding in all cases 31% in all three seed states tested (FS, DS and SS). This allows the germination of all viable seeds, only with the addition of GA3 to the germination substrate, without the need for scarification, so that caper seeds exclusively appear to present a physiological latency. Germination decreased in storage, even with just one month. With the GA3 addition, high germination values were obtained (up to 95% in FS).

The environmental and health risks associated with the application of synthetic chemical inputs in agriculture increased the demand for technologies that allow higher performance and quality of vegetable crops by implementing synergistic materials with the principles of sustainability. In this work, the seed coating with the biomass of Dunaliella salina incorporated in a bioplastic film of Manihot esculenta (cassava) was evaluated as an initial growth and secondary compounds stimulator of Coriandrum sativum (coriander) plants. The obtained results demonstrated that the coating stimulated an increase in the germination percentage (28.75%) and also in concentration of bioactive compounds, such as the six-fold increment of caffeic acid (13.33 mg 100 g-1). The carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins present in the microalgae biomass seem to be responsible for these increments once they are known for providing energy to the seedling development and coordinating the secondary metabolites synthesis. As conclusion, we consider the coating with biomass of D. salina an alternative for crop improvement that contributes to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.

The phenotypic characteristics of forest seeds are the basis of germplasm innovation, genetic improvement, and biological research, and they also are the reference for the development of seed orchards. In this study, we analyzed seed quantity characteristics, phenotypic differentiation, and variation patterns in three seed-bearing clones from different crown layers of the Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) orchard located in Fujian Province, China. We divided the clones into six layers according to crown height and the sunny and shady sides, 14 phenotypic characteristics, and five quality indexes, and we measured the germination rate of seeds. The rate of seeds filled with tannin-like substance in the upper sunny layer was low, but it was high in the lower shady layer. The germination rate was highest in the upper sunny layer and lower in the middle and lower shady sides. Values of most of the 14 phenotypic traits tested differed significantly among clones and layers. The average value of the phenotypic differentiation coefficient was 81.16%, indicating that variation among clones explained most of the total phenotypic variation. The repeatability of the 14 phenotypic traits was high (R > 0.80), indicating that these traits are highly heritable. The phenotypic characteristics of cones and seeds varied from 6.86% to 129.51%. The 14 phenotypic traits exhibited different degrees of correlation, and seed weight, seed circumference, seed width, and seed area can be used to predict other seed traits. However, the correlations between cone traits were not strong. Our results show that when establishing a dwarfing Chinese fir seed orchard, the distribution and variation of seeds in different crown layers of clones should be considered, and clones with more cones in the lower crown layer should be selected as parents.

The caper is a shrub that adapts to harsh environments when it is established, but it presents serious difficulties in its propagation, both by cuttings and by seeds. Its seeds have low germination percentages, and germination is a very slow process. Significant increases in germination have been obtained with scarification and with the addition of gibberellic acid (GA3) to the substrate, leading to the hypothesis that they have possible physical and physiological dormancy. However, the only way to examine the water-impermeability of the cover is through imbibition analysis. This study analyzes the imbibition, viability, and germination of two seed lots, obtained in different years and evaluated immediately after their collection (FS) and after being stored (7 °C) for one month (DS) and one year (SS). The seed moisture content stabilizes from the fourth day, exceeding in all cases 31% in all three seed states tested (FS, DS and SS). This allows the germination of all viable seeds, only with the addition of GA3 to the germination substrate, without the need for scarification, so that caper seeds exclusively appear to present a physiological latency. Germination decreased in storage, even with just one month. With the GA3 addition, high germination values were obtained (up to 95% in FS).

Temperature and salinity significantly affect seed germination, but the joint effects of temperature and salinity on seed germination are still unclear. To explore such effects, a controlled experiment was conducted, where three temperature levels (i.e., 15, 20, and 25°C) and five salinity levels (i.e., 0, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mmol/L) were crossed, resulting in 15 treatments (i.e., 3 temperature levels × 5 salinity levels). Three typical grass species (Festuca arundinacea, Bromus inermis, and Elymus breviaristatus) were used, and 25 seeds of each species were sown in petri dishes under these treatments. Germination percentages and germination rates were calculated on the basis of the daily recorded germinated seed numbers of each species. Results showed that temperature and salinity significantly affected seed germination percentage and germination rate, which differed among species. Specifically, F. arundinacea had the highest germination percentage, followed by E. breviaristatus and B. inermis, with a similar pattern also found regarding the accumulated germination rate and daily germination rate. Generally, F. arundinacea was not sensitive to temperature within the range of 15–25°C, while the intermediate temperature level improved the germination percentage of B. inermis, and the highest temperature level benefited the germination percentage of E. breviaristatus. Moreover, F. arundinacea was also not sensitive to salinity within the range of 0–200 mmol/L, whereas high salinity levels significantly decreased the germination percentage of B. inermis and E. breviaristatus. Thus, temperature and salinity can jointly affect seed germination, but these differ among plant species. These results can improve our understanding of seed germination in saline soils in the face of climate change.

Seed germination is a key stage in the life history of plants, which has a crucial effect on plant community structure. Climate change has substantially altered the surface soil temperature and light availability, which can affect seed germination. However, whether the seed germination of different functional groups is affected by the interactions of light and temperature remains unclear. Under laboratory conditions, we examined the effects of low temperature and darkness, as well as their interaction, on the seed germination of 16 species belonging to three plant functional groups (annual and biennials, perennial grasses, and perennial forbs) in a typical steppe, Northern China. We found that low temperature had a significant negative effect on seed germination of all species. Low temperature significantly decreased the final germination percentage and germinative force of the three plant functional groups, and the germination duration of perennial grasses. Darkness significantly decreased the germinative force of perennial forbs and total seeds, and the germination duration of perennial grasses. The interactive effects of light and temperature on the seed final germination percentage and germinative force of perennial grass indicated that darkness strengthened the inhibitory effect of low temperature on the seed germination of the grass functional group. Our study indicate that the seed germination of different plant functional groups varied greatly in response to changing environmental conditions. Our results suggest that future climate change could alter the regeneration and species composition of plant communities through changing seed germination.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of nanoparticles and non-nanoparticles of titanium dioxide on germination indices of Echinacea under salinity stress. Experimental treatments included nano and bulk particles of titanium dioxide at concentrations of 0, 10, 50, 100 and 150 mg/l and salinity stress from NaCl at levels of 0, -3, -6 and -9 bar. The results showed that Echinacea is sensitive to high salinity stress levels (-6 and -9 bar). The use of nano and non-nano titanium dioxide treatment improved some traits under severe salinity stress. The germination percentage did not occur at salinity levels of -6 and -9 bar, but the addition of nano titanium dioxide with a concentration of 150 mg/l and 50 mg/l non-nano increased germination by 50.6%. Application of nano titanium dioxide increased the seedling weight in control by 1.28 mg to 4.26 mg in the treatment of 150 mg/l nanoparticles. The application of nano and bulk titanium dioxide could significantly reduce the negative effect of high salinity stress levels. This can be a valuable and hopeful solution to solve the problem of salinity stress in Echinacea.

Okra is a nutritious summer vegetable crop in Eswatini. However, it has slow and uneven germination. Seed pre-sowing treatment through osmo-priming can enhance the germination, growth and yield of okra. Thus, laboratory and field experiments were conducted at Luyengo, Middleveld of Eswatini in 2019/2020 cropping season to determine the effect of osmo-priming on germination, growth and yield of okra. Treatments included priming of seeds with Polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentration of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% and unprimed control. Completely randomized design was used for the laboratory experiment and randomized complete block design was used for the field experiment. Results showed significant (p-1). Thus, it can be concluded that seed priming with 15%PEGis the most effective in improving the germination, growth and yield of okra in the study area.

Within the framework of this study, the effect of nanoparticles of the essential trace element selenium stabilized by Polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP) C15 (8 ± 2 kDa) and ascorbic acid on the germination of barley seeds has been studied. Selenium nanoparticles stabilized by PVP C15 (8 ± 2 kDa) and ascorbic acid, characterized by a spherical shape, monodisperse size distribution, and a diameter of about 70 ± 5 nm, were obtained by the chemical reduction method. The experiment compared the effect of selenium nanoparticles and selenous acid on seed germination. The positive effect of preparation of selenium nanoparticles stabilized by PVP C15 (8 ± 2 kDa) and ascorbic acid on the length of roots and shoots, the number of roots, and the percentage of seed germination has been revealed. It was determined that the highest percentage of Hordeum vulgare L. culture seed germination was achieved using a preparation of selenium nanoparticles stabilized by PVP C15 (8 ± 2 kDa) and ascorbic acid at a concentration of of 4.65 µg/mL. Analysis of the results showed that selenium in the form of nanoparticles has an order of magnitude that is less toxic than in the form of selenous acid. The study of morphological and functional parameters during the germination of Hordeum vulgare L. seeds allowed us to conclude that selenium nanoparticles can be successfully used in agronomy and agriculture to provide plants with the essential microelement selenium, which is necessary for the normal growth and development of crops.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.145.11.1.1575.1610 Extended Abstract Introduction: Agriculture has been influenced by different abiotic stresses such as temperature, drought and salinity, which reduces roughly half of the yield of crops. In many forage plants, germination and early seedling growth are the most sensitive stages of their growth in the face of environmental stresses. Current research was conducted to study the effects of drought and salinity iso-osmosis stresses on germination indices and growth parameters of three clover species, including Trifolium resupinatum, T. alexandrinum and T. incarnatum. Material and Methods: Two separate experiments (drought and salinity) were conducted as a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The test factors included clover species with three levels, including T. resupinatum, T. alexandrinum and T. incarnatum and different levels of drought and salinity potentials (0, -2, -4, -6, -8, -10 and -12 bar) due to polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) and sodium chloride (NaCl), respectively. Sterile disposable petri dishes with a diameter of 10 cm were used, in each of which, 27 seeds were placed on filter paper and then 5 ml of the desired treatment solution was added to each. Petri dishes were then placed in a germinator at 20°C and relative humidity of 75%. After the end of the desired time germination (About 14 days), from each petri, germination percentage and rate, number of secondary roots, time to get 50% germination (D50), root to shoot ratio and the number of abnormal seedlings were recorded. Results: Inhibitory effects of salinity and drought stresses affected all germination indices. Germination percentage, rate of germination, root and shoot length all decreased with increasing stress levels, while time to get 50% germination (D50) increased with the increase in stress levels. Under both drought and salinity, all growth parameters of Trifolium resupinatum were higher than the other two species. Germination percentage of T. incarnatum was 0% at -12 bar of drought, but germination of T. resupinatum and T. alexandrinum was 70.33% and 7.33% at -12 bar of these stresses, respectively. Under salinity conditions, all the seeds of the three species germinated at -12 bar. Root to shoot ratio increased with increasing stress levels and at high stress levels, it decreased. The decreases were 41.39% and 0% in drought and salinity, respectively. The number of secondary roots increased with increasing stress levels and the maximum number was observed in Trifolium alexandrinum which was 5.42 and 1 in drought and salinity, respectively. The number of abnormal seedling increased with increasing salinity levels, while under drought conditions there was no abnormal seedling. Conclusion: Comparison of the effects of sodium chloride and polyethylene glycol showed that sodium chloride reduced germination index due to toxic effects or osmotic effects more than polyethylene glycol solution. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­It seems that Trifolium resupinatum has the best yield in both drought and salinity stresses, and that in drought condition, Trifolium alexandrinum, and in salinity stress, Trifolium incarnatum have the best performance. Highlights: Introduction of clover species with more tolerance to drought and salinity in germination stage. Evaluation of germination indices of clover species under drought and salinity iso-osmotic conditions.

Background Sowing time and suitable planting media are considered basic requirements to get the maximum yield and high profit for their direct and significant impact on seedlings quality and productivity of trees later. So this experiment has been carried out in a private nursery at Gharbiya Governorate, Egypt, during the seasons of 2016 and 2017 to study the effect of seven growing media (GM): sandy soil 100%; sandy soil:peat moss:vermiculite (2:1:1) by volume; sandy soil:peat moss:vermiculite (1:2:1); loamy soil:sandy soil:vermiculite (2:1:1); loamy soil:sandy soil:vermiculite (1:2:1); loamy soil:peat moss:vermiculite (2:1:1); and loamy soil:peat moss:vermiculite (1:2:1). Ashoury pistachio seeds were planted on three different dates viz, 1 February, 20 February, and 10 March and their interaction on seed germination and growth of the resulting seedlings. Results The results obtained from this study showed that the maximum germination percentage, number of leaves/seedling, stem diameter, root length, leaf fresh, and dry weight were recorded when the seed was planted on 10 March and seedlings growing in the loamy soil:sandy soil:vermiculite (2:1:1). Conclusion It could be concluded that planting seeds of “Ashoury” pistachio on 10 March in growing media contains loamy soil:sandy soil:vermiculite (2:1:1) for maximum germination and growth of subsequent seedlings.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1397.5. 59.10.2.32.41 Extended abstract Introduction: Crop rotations are practiced to eliminate the effect of monoculture, but the succeeding crop may be influenced by the phytotoxins released by the preceding crop. Among plants, Brassica species contain allelochemical compounds as glucosinolate that is, under special conditions, released to environment and affects seed germination and plant growth. Wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis L.) as a weed of 30 crops in 52 countries which has a series of allelopathic effects that prevent germination of other plants. Products of glucosinolate- like ionic thiocyanate (SCN-) inhibited the root or shoot growth of many crop species. Also volatile compounds like isoprenoid and benzenoid released from Brassica tissue degradation may suppress many crops growth. It was also found in many studies that allelochemicals, which inhibited the growth of some species at certain concentrations, might stimulate the growth of same or different species at lower concentrations. The present research was conducted to evaluate the effects of aqueous extract concentration of various mustard parts on barley seed germination and seedling growth. Materials and Methods: In order to evaluate the allelopathic effect of mustard in agro ecosystems, a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with three replications was carried out in botany laboratory of agriculture faculty, Illam University in 2014. Experimental treatments included five concentrations of mustards foliage and root aqueous extract (0, 10, 30, 50, and 70 percent) that were studied at germination and early growth stage of barley (cv. Abidar) in two separate experiments. In the seed germination section, the effects of aqueous extract of mustard on germination rate and germination percentage of barley seed were measured. In the study of the effect of aqueous extract of mustard on barley seedlings, weight and length of root and shoot, leaf chlorophyll content, proline and soluble sugars content were measured. Results: Results showed that the highest amount of barley seed germination percentage and germination rate (100 and 19.5, respectively) were observed in control and the lowest amount (40 and 9.5, respectively) belonged to mustard root aqueous treatment with 70 percent concentration. The most decrease in barley seedlings length and weight were observed at the highest concentration of aqueous extract. The amount of chlorophyll a decreased from 2.39 in control to 1.66 mg per fresh weight in 70 percent concentration of aqueous extract treatment. The highest amount of proline (66.8 μM per fresh weight) in barley foliage was observed in 70 percent aqueous extract treatment. The results from this study showed that mustard allelopathic effect may be a possible mechanism controlling the barley germination and early growth stage in agro ecosystems. Conclusion: Generally, we were able to demonstrate short term auto toxicity and possible short-term allelopathy due to mustard has harmful effects on barley including reduced seed germination and emergence of barley seedling. Depending on the concentrations of Mustard extract, allelopathic activity will vary Mustard. Further investigations are also needed to determine the influence of cultivar variations, and to identify the active compounds involved in mustard auto toxicity and Allelopathy. Highlights: 1-Mustards aqueous extract reduced seed germination percentage and plant growth in barley. 2-Mustards aqueous extract increased proline and soluble sugars in barley, but it reduced amount of chlorophyll in this plant.

DOR: 98.1000/2383-1251.1397.5. 105.10.2.1578.1601 Extended abstract Introduction: Seed germination is one of the first important and complex stages in the plant life cycle and is affected by many hereditary and environmental factors. Various factors affect germination and seedling establishment. Among these factors are the characteristics of the maternal plant (nutrition, genetics), seed treatment stage at harvest time, as well as environmental factors (temperature, water potential, and ventilation and soil compaction). Also, under the influence of seed loss during storage, seed vigor, which is known as the first component of seed quality, decrease. The aim of this study was investigation of germination and biochemichal responses of the aged seed of Fenugreek to different temperature and humidity ranges. Materials and Methods: This experiment was conducted as a factorial based on a completely randomized design with four replications in the Laboratory of Seed Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University in 2016. The experimental treatments consisted of nine levels of temperature (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 degrees Celsius), water potential included seven levels (zero (control), -0.2, -0.4, -0.6, -0.8, -1 and -1.2 MPa) and seed aging at two levels (no aged (control) and aged seed). Results: In this experiment, the effect of seed aging, water potential and their interactions on each environment on germination indices (germination percentage and germination rate, length and weight vigor index) and biochemical indices (soluble sugar, proline, soluble protein and catalase enzymes) of Fenugreek seeds were significant. The results showed that in the aged seed the germination percentage and rate and seedling vigor index tended to decrease with water potential reduce in temperature lower and higher than 20 degrees Celsius, and the amount of biochemical components of the seed (soluble sugar, soluble protein, proline, and catalase enzyme) also increase. Conclusion: In general, germination and biochemical indices of seed of Fenugreek are sensitive to water potentials, aging, and seed germination temperatures, respectively. In terms of osmotic potential decrese, the germination temperature of less than 20 ° C resulted in increased germination resistance of fenugreek seed to a more negative water potential. Highlights: Study of germination and biochemical properties of fenugreek seed aged under different level of osmotic potantials and temperatures. In areas with a lower osmotic potential it is better to cultivate Fenugreek seed at temperatures below 20 °C.

Background. Under natural conditions, germinating pollen grains are in a complex multicomponent environment, including compounds of different chemical nature. The study of the action of phytoregulators on pollen germination is relevant, since in the long term it will help to improve the conditions of the germination medium, bring them closer to the natural ones and, as a result, increase the accuracy of the assessment of pollen viability.Materials and methods. The object of the study is pollen of the apple-tree образца Krasnolistnaya (Malus niedzwetzkyana Dieck, syn. M. sieversii (Ledeb.) M. Roem. var. niedzwetzkyana Likh.). The effect of phytohormones on apple-tree pollen germination in artificial nutrient medium was studied. Viability of pollen was assessed by germinating it in an artificial nutrient medium containing 10% sucrose and 0.8% agar-agar. Pollen was considered sprouted if its pollen tube in length exceeded the diameter of the pollen grain. Drops of pollen suspension in distilled water with added phytohormones in various combinations and concentrations were applied to the surface of the nutrient medium.Results. Two-factor dispersion analysis of the initial data made it possible to conclude that the greatest effect on pollen germination was provided by a combined action of the factors "stimulator concentration + illumination mode", under which there was an increased percentage of germinated pollen. The effect of only the stimulator's concentration and type on the number of germinated pollen grains was slightly less. And the least of all was the effect of the illumination mode on pollen grain viability, although the influence of this factor was also significant: p = 0.00562. Effective concentrations and combinations of phytohormones have been identified to increase germination of apple-tree pollen.

One of the problems of propagation of lindens (Tilia spp.) is low seed germination. In this research, different treatments for stimulating the germination in immature seeds of Tilia rubra subsp. caucasica form angulata collected from middle altitude (500 m a.s.l.) and high altitude (1500 m a.s.l.) of Chamestan forests (northern Iran) were examined. In both altitudinal seed sources, immature seeds with pericarp were subjected to 1) cold stratification, and 2) imbibed with NaOH (30%)+cold stratification. Also, immature seeds without pericarp were examined as 1) imbibed with GA3 (500 mg/l)+cold stratification, and 2) kinetin acid (1 mg/l)+cold stratification. The most germination percentage (87%) allocated to non-pericarp seeds of higher altitude, treated respectively, with 1) GA3+cold stratification, and 2) kinetin acid+cold stratification. The most germination speed (6 seeds/week) belonged to seeds of with pericarp collected from middle altitude, treated respectively with 1) cold stratification, and 2) imbibed with GA3+cold stratification. The lowest mean germination time (20 days) allocated to seeds with pericarp of middle altitude (only cold stratified). Generally, eventhough, non-pericarp immature seeds of higher altitude, imbibed with GA3 (and kinetin acid)+cold stratification had favorable germination percentage, the immature seeds with pericarp of lower altitude (only cold stratified) represented satisfaction germination percentage along the shorter period. However, in future investigations, effect of treatments on seed vigor index and growth of Tilia seedling in order to employ the proper method for seed propagation and seedling production of this species in nursery are advised.

[ES] El cultivo de la alcaparra (Capparis spinosa L.) es un cultivo tradicional del litoral mediterráneo, ya que se trata de un ingrediente corriente en la dieta mediterránea. Sin embargo, es un cultivo que presenta problemas en su propagación, concretamente en el caso de la reproducción sexual presenta un porcentaje bajo germinación de las semillas, siendo un proceso lento. Una de las razones podría ser la cubierta dura que impide la imbibición y/o la emergencia de la radícula. En el presente Trabajo Final de Máster se evaluó la influencia de diferentes tratamientos en la imbibición, viabilidad y germinación de las semillas. Las semillas se sometieron a dos tratamientos de escarificación física, con ultrasonidos mediante un sonicador, ensayando 3 potencias y 3 duraciones diferentes, y radiación láser durante 4 tiempos de exposición diferentes. Además, se ensayó la respuesta de las semillas a la iluminación con diferentes longitudes de onda durante la germinación, analizando el efecto de iluminar las semillas con luz blanca, azul, roja, azul + roja, así como la respuesta de semillas que se mantuvieron en oscuridad. En todos los ensayos se realizaron 4 repeticiones por tratamiento, comparando siempre la humectación del sustrato con agua destilada y con una solución de ácido giberélico (500 mg L-1). En todos los ensayos se constata que para obtener una germinación adecuada se necesita la adición de ácido giberélico. El resultado obtenido con el tratamiento de ultrasonidos depende de la potencia aplicada y del tiempo de exposición, variando desde un adelanto de la germinación (20 W durante 1 min) hasta una disminución del porcentaje de germinación (100 W 3 min). Durante el tratamiento con ultrasonidos aumenta la humedad de la semilla, en mayor medida a mayor potencia y tiempo de exposición; en cambio, en el ensayo de imbibición, el contenido de humedad final de las semillas no se ve afectado por estos factores, por lo que el valor de la imbibición (%) se ve reducido a mayores potencias y tiempos de exposición. La irradiación de las semillas con rayo láser He-Ne no mejora ni adelanta la germinación; tampoco modifica el proceso de imbibición. Las semillas de alcaparra no necesitan iluminación para su germinación y la reducción del espectro de la iluminación aplicada reduce el porcentaje de germinación., [EN] The cultivation of the caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a traditional crop of the Mediterranean area, since it is a common ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. However, it is a crop that presents problems in its propagation, particularly it has a low seed germination percentage and has a slow germination process. One of the reasons could be the hard cover that prevents the imbibition and/or the radicle emergence. In the present Final Master¿s Project, the influence of different treatments on the imbibition, viability and germination of the seeds has been evaluated. The seeds were subjected to two physical scarification treatments with ultrasound using a sonicator, testing 3 powers and 3 different durations, and laser radiation during 4 different exposure times. In addition, the seeds response to different wavelengths lighting during germination were tested, analysing the effect of the white, blue, red, blue + red lights, as well as the response of seeds that were kept in the dark. In all the tests, 4 repetitions were carried out per treatment, always comparing the wetting of the substrate with distilled water and with a solution of gibberellic acid (500 mg L-1). In all the tests, it is found that to obtain adequate germination the addition of gibberellic acid is necessary. The result obtained with the ultrasound treatment depends on the applied power and the exposure time, varying from an earlier germination (20 W for 1 min) to a decrease in the germination percentage (100 W 3 min). During the treatment with ultrasound, the seed moisture increases, to a greater extent at higher power and exposure time. On the other hand, in the imbibition test, the final seed moisture content is not affected by these factors, so the imbibition value (%) is reduced at higher powers and exposure times. Irradiation of the seeds with He-Ne laser beam does not improve or advance germination; neither modifies the imbibition process. Caper seeds do not need lighting for germination, and reducing the spectrum of applied lighting reduces the germination percentage.

— In this study, we tested the growth of two varieties of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) cultivated in two types of soils and the effects of the inoculation of seeds with cells of bacterial strains and vermicompost. (H. sabdariffa) are a member of the Malvaceae family and an important plant because its calyxes are used to produce beverages, prepare food, in the textile industry, cosmetology, perfumery, medicine, etc. This research was carried out at the Postgraduate College, Montecillo Campus, Mexico. The experimental design was completely randomized blocks with a factorial arrangement (4x3x2): four levels of organic matter factor, three levels of bacterial strains factor, and two levels of soil factor with three repetitions. The variables tested were: germination percentage (GP), plant height (PH), stem diameter (SD), the number of leaves (NL), foliar area (FA cm2), radical volume (RV cm3), dry aerial part biomass weight (DAPBW), dry root biomass weight (DRBW), dry calyx biomass weight (DCBW) and chlorophyll content (CC). The effects of soil and bacterial strains showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) on the agronomic characteristics of (H. sabdariffa) plants. The organic matter factor only presented significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in the germination percentage and growth variables of the vegetative phase. To increase crop production, the use of wastewater and microorganisms is proposed. Vermicompost exploded the percentage of germination, height, the number of leaves and stem diameter during the first weeks of growth, presenting important results in Creole variety (farmers’ local variety). By inoculating seeds with cells of bacterial strains, A9m and A7 helped significantly to stimulate plant growth, finding a better response in A9m strain. The effects of soil factor showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in soil irrigated with residual water over agronomic characteristics satisfying the nutritional requirements of the crop.

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are multifunctional flowering plants belonging to the Asteraceae family, well-known and widespread for their ornamental value and many other uses. In this study, morphological differences and genetic relationships among 21 cultivars of three species of marigold (Tagetes patula, T. erecta and T. tenuifolia) were analysed. Results have revealed obvious differences among genotypes, starting from the morphological characteristics of the seeds and their capacity to germinate to adult plant morphological characteristics, both between cultivars and species. The genotypic differences were manifested in considerable variation in the development of phenological stages and the main morphological traits of plants and flowers. PCA and hierarchical clustering analyses of morphological traits revealed a homogeneous grouping of cultivars within each species, except for Orion, belonging to T. patula, which was closer to T. erecta cultivars. A subset of 13 cultivars from the three species was subjected to SSR analysis, revealing considerable genetic diversity and good separation between T. patula on the one side and T. erecta and T. tenuifolia on the other. The observed heterozygosity was much lower than the expected heterozygosity, revealing a high degree of fixation. The results reveal that the three species evaluated have considerable morphological and genetic diversity, which has important implications for assessing genetic diversity, conserving germplasm and selecting parents for new breeding works in marigolds.

Research highlights: This study is focused on the germination of Dracaena cinnabari seeds in order to discover the possibility of natural and artificial regeneration of this species. Background and Objectives: This study aimed to determine the optimal temperature for D. cinnabari seed germination, e.g., the temperature at which the germination percentage and germination rate (vitality) are the highest. The objectives of this study are to: (1) determine the optimal temperature for the germination of D. cinnabari seeds, (2) compare the suitability of different seed collection methods, and (3) compare the germination parameters of seeds that were collected from different localities. The results of this study will contribute to obtaining the highest number of seedlings from limited seed material for reforestation of the most endangered localities of D. cinnabari species. Materials and methods: Four seed sections were employed. These sections were directly collected from either the fruits of a cut panicle or the ground and were obtained from different localities that differ in altitude. The seeds were tested in a greenhouse while using Petri dishes at three different temperatures&mdash, 22, 26, and 30 &deg, C&mdash, with four replicates of 25 seeds of each section. ANOVA and the t-test were employed for data analysis. Results: The highest germination percentages (GPs) were achieved at 26 &deg, C and 30 &deg, C, which were 84.6% and 82.5%, respectively. The ANOVA and t-test results showed that the germination index (GI) of the species was relatively higher at a temperature of 30 &deg, C relative to that at other temperatures in the study. Although seeds that were collected from the tree achieved a higher GP, the t-test result showed no significant differences in the GI of D. cinnabari seeds that were collected from the ground and from the tree (p &gt, 0.05). Overall, the findings of this study show that temperature has substantial influence on the germination of seeds of D. cinnabari. Therefore, we recommend a temperature of 30 &deg, C to facilitate the germination of D. cinnabari, as it achieved the highest GI at this temperature relative to that at the other temperatures (22 &deg, C, 26 &deg, C) applied in this study.

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) is a commercially important biennial root crop, providing about 20% of the world&rsquo, s annual sugar production. Seed quality is crucial for adequate plant growth and production. The productivity of sugar beet is often limited by heterogeneous germination in the field. In order to improve the sugar beet germination process, the effect of different concentrations of microalgal extracts from Chlorella vulgaris or Scenedesmus quadricauda was investigated by calculating several indices useful to evaluate the germination performance. Moreover, root morphological analysis was performed by using WinRHIZO software. B. vulgaris seeds were soaked with five different concentrations (from 0.1 to 10 mg Corg/L) of the microalgal extracts, considering the amount of organic carbon (Corg) in each extract. Our results show that these microalgal extracts exert a positive effect on sugar beet germination, by increasing efficiency and regularity of this critical process for B. vulgaris seeds. The best results, in terms of germination indices as well as root morphological traits, were reached by using C. vulgaris extract at the concentrations C2 (1 mg Corg/L) and C3 (2 mg Corg/L).

This paper aims to elucidate the effects of exogenous brassinolide (BL) on maize germination and seedling growth under chilling stress. The cold-resistant maize hybrid Tiannong 9 and the cold-sensitive hybrid Tianhe 1 were soaked at the germination stage (6 &deg, C) and leaves were sprayed at seedling stage (4 &deg, C), with BL at concentrations of 0, 0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/L. The germination rate of the maize seeds and the changes in seedling biomass, antioxidant, photosynthetic, and plant endogenous hormone systems and chloroplast ultrastructures were determined. The results showed that the optimum concentration of BL to alleviate chilling stress in maize seedlings was 0.1 mg/L. This rate effectively increased the germination rate and plant biomass of maize and significantly increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD) peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities, the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs) and transpiration rate (Tr), and seedling auxin (IAA), gibberellin (GA3) and trans zeatin nucleoside (t-ZR) contents under chilling stress. In addition, BL significantly reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, abscisic acid (ABA) content, and intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci). In the comparison of mesophyll cells, the chloroplast membrane of the treatment group was tightly attached to the stroma, and some of the plasma membranes were dissolved, but the overall structure of the chloroplast was relatively complete, and the osmiophilic granules were relatively few. The exogenous application of BL can effectively alleviate the damage caused by a low temperature in maize, maintain the normal characteristics of seedlings in chilling environments, and ensure the development and growth of plant tissue in the later stage.

[ES] La alcaparra es una especie cultivada principalmente por sus botones florales y sus frutos. Presenta dificultades en su propagación, tanto vegetativa como sexual. En los últimos años, el equipo de investigación en el que se desarrolla este Trabajo Final de Máster ha realizado diversos estudios para mejorar ambos tipos de propagación. En el caso de las semillas comerciales utilizadas hasta la fecha, se han obtenido bajos porcentajes de germinación, por lo que en presente trabajo se pretende analizar esta baja germinación. Los resultados obtenidos se compararon con dos lotes de semillas recolectadas por el equipo investigador, uno en el mismo año de estudio (2018) y otro tras su almacenamiento durante 6 años (2012). Los tres lotes de semillas se sometieron a distintos ensayos: ensayos de absorción de agua, al sumergir las semillas en agua y en una solución de ácido giberélico (AG3) en tres condiciones diferentes (tubos de ensayo con 10 cm de la solución, con 1 cm de la solución, y en placas de Petri, con papel de filtro humedecido) durante 9 días, determinándose diariamente el peso de las semillas, que también se embebieron en colorante azul de metileno, para conocer el proceso de entrada de la solución en el interior de la semilla; test de Viabilidad al tetrazolio; ensayos de germinación en placas de Petri, con dos medios (agua y una solución de 500 mg L-1 AG3). Se realizaron conteos periódicos que permitieron ajustar los datos de germinación a un modelo logístico. Los resultados mostraron que las semillas de alcaparra son capaces de absorber el agua, por lo que se puede asegurar que no tienen una cubierta impermeable, y que la solución penetra a través de la zona micropilar cuando las semillas están en buenas condiciones. Los mayores valores de imbibición y humedad de las semillas se alcanzaron con las semillas propias de 2018, y en mayor medida en las semillas sumergidas en una columna de solución, independientemente de su concentración en AG3. En cuanto a los ensayos de viabilidad, las semillas propias presentaron una viabilidad del 65%, mientras ésta descendía hasta el 2% para las del 2012. Las semillas comerciales presentaron una viabilidad intermedia (17,5%). Tanto las semillas comerciales como las propias de 2012, obtuvieron porcentajes de germinación muy bajos (2,5% y 0,5%, respectivamente), no permitiendo el ajuste logístico de los datos. En cuanto a las semillas del 2018 sí que se pudo ajustar el modelo logístico, obteniendo un adelanto en la germinación con AG3, aunque limitó el porcentaje de germinación alcanzado, con un 51% de germinación, mientras que en agua el proceso se alargó más en el tiempo, alcanzando una germinación en torno al 85%. Dados los bajos resultados obtenidos con las semillas comerciales, se clasificaron en cuatro sub-lotes en función del grado de deterioro de la cubierta, sometiéndolas a los mismos ensayos. En cuanto a la absorción de agua se obtuvieron resultados equivalentes a los obtenidos al analizar el lote en conjunto. La viabilidad y la germinación de las semillas fueron muy bajas, incluso para el lote en mejor estado (5% de germinación). Considerando todos los resultados obtenidos, se recomienda extraer, procesar y almacenar las semillas de alcaparra con sumo cuidado., [EN] The caper is a species cultivated mainly for its flower buds and its fruits, which presents difficulties in its propagation, both vegetative and sexual. In recent years, the research team in which this Master's Final Thesis is carried out, has developed different studies to improve both types of propagation. In the case of commercial seeds used to date, low germination percentages have been obtained, so this study aims to analyze this low germination. The results obtained were compared with two batches of seeds collected by the research team, one in the same year of study (2018) and the other one after storage for 6 years (2012). The three seed batches were subjected to different tests: water absorption tests, by immersing the seeds in water and in an gibberellic acid (GA3) solution under three different conditions (test tubes with 10 cm of the solution, with 1 cm of the solution , and in Petri dishes, with mositoned filter paper) for 9 days, determining, daily, the weight of the seeds, which were also soaked in blue methylene dye, to know the process of entry of the solution inside the seed; Tetrazole Viability test; Germination tests in Petri dishes, with two media (water and a solution of 500 mg L-1 GA3). Periodic counts were carried out that allowed the germination data to be adjusted to a logistic model. The results showed that the caper seeds are capable of absorbing water, so it can be ensured that they do not have a waterproof cover, and that the solution penetrates through the micropillar area when the seeds are in good condition. The highest imbibition and moisture values were achieved with the 2018 seeds, and to a greater extent in the seeds immersed in a solution column, regardless of their concentration in GA3. Regarding the viability tests, the own seeds presented a viability of 65%, while this decreased to 2% for those of 2012. The commercial seeds presented an intermediate viability (17,5%). Both commercial and own seeds from 2012 obtained very low germination percentages (2,5% and 0,5%, respectively), not allowing logistical adjustment of the data. As for the 2018 seeds, the logistics model was adjusted, obtaining an advance in germination with GA3, although it limited the percentage of germination reached, with 51% germination, while in water the process is longer in the time, reaching a germination of around 85%. Given the low results obtained with commercial seeds, they were classified into four sub-batches depending on the degree of deterioration of the cover, subjecting them to the same tests. Regarding water absorption, results were equivalent to those obtained when analyzing the batch as a whole were obtained. The viability and germination of the seeds were very low, even for the batch in the best condition (5% germination). Overall, it can be recommended to extract, process and store the caper seeds with great care., [CA] La tàpera és una espècie cultivada principalment pels seus botons florals i els seus fruits, que presenta dificultats en la seva propagació, tant vegetativa com sexual. En els últims anys, l'equip d'investigació en el qual es desenvolupa aquest Treball Final de Màster ha realitzat diversos estudis per millorar els dos tipus de propagació. En el cas de les llavors comercials utilitzades fins a la data, s'han obtingut baixos percentatges de germinació, pel que en aquest treball es pretén analitzar aquesta baixa germinació. Els resultats obtinguts es van comparar amb dos lots de llavors recol·lectades per l'equip investigador, un al mateix any d'estudi (2018) i un altre després de la seva emmagatzematge durant 6 anys (2012). Els tres lots de llavors es van sotmetre a diferents assaigs: assajos d'absorció d'aigua, submergint les llavors en aigua i en una solució d'àcid giberèlic (AG3) en tres condicions diferents (tubs d'assaig amb 10 cm de la solució, amb 1 cm de la solució, i en plaques de Petri, amb paper de filtre humitejat) durant 9 dies, determinant diàriament el pes de les llavors, que també es submergiren en colorant blau de metilè, per conèixer el procés d'entrada de la solució en el interior de la llavor; test de Viabilitat al tetrazoli; assajos de germinació en plaques de Petri, amb dos mitjans (aigua i una solució de 500 mg L-1 AG3). Es van realitzar recomptes periòdics que van permetre ajustar les dades de germinació a un model logístic. Els resultats van mostrar que les llavors de tàpera són capaços d'absorbir l'aigua, de manera que es pot assegurar que no tenen una coberta impermeable, i que la solució penetra a través de la zona micropilar quan les llavors estan en bones condicions. Els majors valors de imbibició i humitat es van assolir amb les llavors pròpies de 2018, i en major mesura en les llavors submergides en una columna de solució, independentment de la seva concentració en AG3. Quant als assajos de viabilitat, les llavors pròpies van presentar una viabilitat del 65%, mentre aquesta descendia fins al 2% per a les de l'2012. Les llavors comercials van presentar una viabilitat intermèdia (17,5%). Tant les llavors comercials com les pròpies de 2012, van obtenir percentatges de germinació molt baixos (2,5% i 0,5%, respectivament), no permetent l'ajust logístic de les dades. Pel que fa a les llavors del 2018 sí que es va ajustar el model logístic, obtenint un avanç en la germinació amb AG3, tot i que va limitar el percentatge de germinació assolit, amb un 51% de germinació, mentre que en aigua el procés s'allargà més en el temps, aconseguint una germinació al voltant del 85%. Donats els baixos resultats obtinguts amb les llavors comercials, es van classificar en quatre sub-lots en funció del grau de deteriorament de la coberta, sotmetent-los als mateixos assajos. Pel que fa a l'absorció d'aigua es van obtenir resultats equivalents als obtinguts a l'analitzar el lot en conjunt. La viabilitat i la germinació de les llavors van ser molt baixes, fins i tot per al lot en millor estat (5% de germinació). Considerant tots els resultats obtinguts, es recomana extraure, processar i emmagatzemar les llavors de tàpera amb molta cura.

Çalışma kapsamında Kafkas ıhlamuru (Tilia rubra DC. subsp. caucasica ) türünün Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi kampüsü içerisinde yer alan üç farklı ağaçtan toplanan tohumları kullanılmıştır. Tohumlar iki farklı tarihte (15 Ağustos 2017 ve 5 Eylül 2017) toplanıp herhangi bir ön işleme tabi tutulmaksızın aynı gün içerisinde ekilmiştir. Ekim ortamı olarak dere kumu ve orman toprağı karışımı (1:2) kullanılmıştır. Sera ve açık alanda oluşturulan ekim yastıklarında ekimler gerçekleştirilmiştir. Açık alanda yapılan ekimlerde gölgeleme yapılan ve yapılmayan deneme parselleri oluşturulmuştur. Çalışma kapsamında en iyi çimlenme yüzdesi % 59.0 ile 5 Eylül döneminde toplanan tohumlardan açık alanda gölgeleme yapılan ekim yastıklarında elde edilmiştir. En yüksek çimlenme hızı ise Ağustos döneminde, 1 ve 2 no’lu ağaçtan toplanan tohumlarda, açık alanda gölgeleme yapılmayan ekim ortamında 36 gün olarak elde edilmiştir. Red lime (Tilia rubra DC. subsp. caucasica) seeds which were gathered from three different trees located in the Karadeniz Technical University campus were used as a material in this study. Seeds were gathered at two different times (15 August 2017 and 5 September 2017) and sowing was done in the same day without any pre-treatment. A mixture of river sand and forest soil (1:2) was used in germination medium. Three different germination medium (green house, open environment and open environment with shade effect) were used for obtaining germination characteristics. Obtained results showed that best germination percentage occurred in the outside germination medium with shade effect as 59.0% in seeds which were gathered from the tree 1 in September. However, the best germination speed was obtained as 36 days under the outside environment conditions in seeds gathered from the trees 1 and 2 in August.

Extended abstract Introduction: Drought stress is one of the major problems in sugar beet production in Iran, and is the most important limiting factor for germination and establishment of sugar beet in the early stages of growth. Seed priming with chemical, nutrient elements or pre-chilling techniques are the most effective methods to improve germination percentage and speed, leading to uniform and tolerant seedlings in adverse environmental conditions. Material and Methods: In order toassess the effect of cold stratification and HCl treatments on the germination of sugar beet seed, cv. Ekbatan, under drought stress conditions, a RCBD factorial experiment with three replications was conducted in Seed Science and Technology Lab of Shahrekord University. The first factor was stratificationintwo levels; the second factor was seven levels of pretreatments including 2,4and6hours’ soaking in water and 0.03 HCL accompanied with control, and the third factor was four drought levels (control, -2, -4, -6 bar). Result: Compared with the control, seed germination percentage and germination rate increased by at least 5-fold, relative germination by 50% and root and shoot length by 10%, due to stratification and duration of exposure to HCl treatments. With no stratification, germination traits increased with increases in exposure time in acid, and the highest values were obtained for the seeds exposed to HCl 0.03 normal for 6 hours. Although under optimal conditions, the effect of HCl was compensated for by stratification, in drought conditions, the highest values ​​were observed in stratified seeds and those placed in acid. Conclusions: Since successful establishment of sugar beet seedlings at drought stress conditions is critical to achieving optimum density and yield, application of stratification treatments for one week and seed exposure to HCl increased the seed performance under stress conditions. This trend continued to increase with drought stress intensity, and placement of seeds in acid doubled seed germination in -2 bar drought conditions, which continued by 4 times in -6 bar, compared with stratified control seeds. Compared to separate application of the treatments, application of stratification and HCl treatments had synergistic effects on sugar beet seed performance, especially under drought stress conditions. Highlights: Cold stratification and hydrochloric acid treatments increase the efficiency of sugar beet seeds under drought stress conditions. Cold stratification and Hydrochloric acid treatment have a synergistic effect on sugar beet seeds.