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This study evaluated the potential of compost-combusted forest litters as alternative sources of ex-situ organo-mineral products to the direct use of controlled fire for enhanced soil nutrients in forest stands. Floor litters from six (6) delineated standing forest patches of Pterocarpus erinaceus, Gmelina arborea, Tectona grandis, Bambusa vulgaris, Ceiba pentandra and Mangifera indica were characterized for N, K, P, Ca and Mg; composted for 3, 6, 9 and 12 days and then uniformly combusted to produce organo-minerals for early growth response of Dacryodes edulis in a 6 x 4 split-plot factorial experiment. Analysis of variance was conducted for litter characteristics, calorific values, moisture, ash contents, and germination and growth variables of Dacryodes edulis while significant means were separated with DMRT (p ≥ 0.05). Results showed that Mangifera had the highest P (0.68%) and K (1.15%); Bamboo had the highest N (1.92%). Germination was 6>9>12> 3 days with Bamboo > Ceiba > Teak > Mangifera > Gmelina > Pterocarpus for 6 days organo-minerals, but the highest height (21.56 ± 6.77 cm) by Pterocarpus to implicate litters under microbe-thermal mediation as sustainable organo-mineral ex-situ products to combat incidence of forest fire for fertile forest soil. Thus, in-situ controlled fire in standing forests is no longer needed for nutrient-rich forest-agriculture.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different treatments on seed germination of the Mucuna flagillepes Hook. F (ukpo) species was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Imo State University, Owerri. This experiment consisted of seven(7) treatment levels and was replicated three times, the treatment were O, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72hours, then untreated seeds serve as a control in a completely randomized design. During the germination stage, germination percentage, imbibitions period (IP), germination index(GI), germination speed (GS), and seed vigor index (SVI) were recorded. The result obtained from Plant extract, Piper guineense (uziza), and Xlopia aethiopica (Uda), results showed that uziza extract at 12 and 48hours priming gave the highest germination percentage (99.33%) while 72hours gave the fastest imbibitions period of 7days which was significantly different (P<0.05) from the controls. Also, Uziza extract compared with Uda extract in 72 hours priming duration significantly improved the Germination index (0.4066), germination speed (0.2300), and seed vigor index (5.277). The use of plant extracts at an increased soaking period of 60 hours and 72 hours respectively will enhance germination parameters and seedling growth treatment of the seed of Mucuna flagellipes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is a fruit tree of African origin cultivated in more than 50 countries, including Colombia, mainly in the Colombian Caribbean departments, where its harvest generates significant income in rural communities. Its establishment presents a difficulty because the sexual seed presents physical dormancy and poor germination. The objective of this study was to evaluate Tamarind seed viability by using the tetrazolium test and to reduce the time needed for the determination of its physiological quality. Ripe and healthy fruits were collected from patio trees, from which their seeds were extracted, disinfected with 1% sodium hypochlorite, and washed with plenty of water before use. Subsequently, they were scarified with No. 100 sandpaper by the edges, except in the area of the micropyle. The completely random design was used in a 3x3 bifactorial arrangement, with four repetitions. The first factor, tetrazolium concentration (%), was tested at levels of 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00%, and the second factor, immersion time, at 2, 4, and 6 hours. The analysis of variance did not show significance for the tetrazolium concentration, while it did for the immersion time (p≤0.01), and the tetrazolium-time interaction (p≤0.05). Therefore, the concentration of 0.50% tetrazolium for six hours of immersion is a reliable alternative to determine the physiological quality of tamarind seeds compared to conventional germination testing due to its low cost and execution time. Likewise, the percentages of germination and germination speed index were higher when the seed was scarified with sandpaper than the conventional method.

The post-harvest process at the storage stage is one of the most critical processes for maintaining soybean seed quality. The type of packaging and the type of material stored will affect its shelf life. One type of packaging has specific properties that are different from other types of packaging. Therefore, this study used several types of packaging materials and soybean varieties to determine changes in its quality during storage. The treatments were arranged in a 5 × 4 × 7 factorial experiment in a randomised block design (RBD) with three replications, consisting of totally 140 treatment combinations involving five different types of packaging materials. Water content, the weight of 100 grains, seedling dry weight, electrical conductivity (EC), and germination percentage were assessed monthly. The factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare water content, the weight of 100 grains, EC, germination, and seedling dry weight. A qualitative descriptive analysis method was employed for the temperature and relative humidity of the storage room. The results showed that Grobogan had the lowest germination percentage of 84.85% compared to the other varieties (86.97-90.82%). Plastic sack resulted in the most inferior seed quality (82.00% for plastic sack vs. 88.23-90.17% for the other containers). A more extended storage period of soybean seeds caused a decrease in soybean quality for all varieties and packaging materials. Up to 6 months of storage at room temperature, the quality of soybean seeds remained high, with the lowest germination of 80%.

【Objective】The study was performed to explore the germination characteristics of Passiflora edulia Sims seeds in order to lay a foundation for seed seedling raising and seed germination and character observation of hybrid offspring of P. edulia.【Method】P. edulia seeds were used as experimental materials to study the effects of different water temperatures (25, 45, 65, 85, 100 ℃), time of soaking in concentrated sulfuric acid (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 8, 10 and 15 min), gibberellin concentrations (0, 200, 400 and 800 mg/L), culture temperatures (18, 28, 35, 18-28, 28-35 ℃), seed shells and different physical treatment methods (acupuncture and sanding) on seed germination of P. edulia. Taking germination rate, germination potential and germination index as test indexes, different germination conditions were evaluated to determine the suitable ones for seed germination.【Result】The germination rate of P. edulia seeds soaked in 65℃ warm water for 24 h was the highest (57.78%). The optimum soaking time in concentrated sulfuric acid was 8 min, the germination rate, germination potential and germination index were 77.38%, 77.38% and 3.39%, respectively. The germination rate was 81.11% when the soaking concentration of gibberellin was 400 mg/L. The optimum culture temperature for germination was 28-35℃, and the germination rate was 64.44%. The seed germination rate of P. edulia was 76.67%. There was no significant difference in seed germination between physical treatment and acupuncture treatment, but acupuncture was not well controlled and easy to hurt seed embryo. Grinding treatment was the best, and the germination rate was 60%.【Conclusion】The seeds of P. edulia are suitable to be soaked in 65℃ warm water for 24 h or soaked in concentrated sulfuric acid for 8 min for 24 h; The seed germination rate can be effectively improved by grinding treatment or soaking in 400 mg/L gibberellin for 24 h. The suitable germination culture temperature is 28-35℃.

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.

Helichrysum amorginum is a perennial shrub, endemic on the Greek island of Amorgos and used for medicinal, cosmetic and ornamental purposes. Information concerning germination behavior and seedling survival is considered essential for the establishment and cultivation of wild species. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of temperature and light on germination of Helichrysum amorginum seeds. A set of experiments was conducted under completely randomized design with four replications of 200 seeds at three different suboptimal germination temperatures (15, 20 and 25°C) in light and dark conditions for 10 days. Seed material was collected from two different fields of the island (Aegiali and Katapola). The germination performance was evaluated by final germination percentage and mean germination time. The effect of temperature on seed germination percentage and mean germination time was significant in all cases. The presence of light enhanced germination, especially at the optimum temperature of 20°C. In most cases the mean germination time increased at the lower temperature of 15°C. Seeds from Aegiali exhibited higher germination ability than the seed lot from Katapola. Knowledge of seed germination behaviour is of major importance in order to establish effective protocols for seed propagation in Helichrysum amorginum.

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.

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: 98.1000/2383-1251.1398.6.145.11.1.1575.1610 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.

Teff is an annual grass originated in Ethiopia, grown for both human food and animal feed. Salinity and moisture stress are the main limiting factors of agricultural development on arid and semi-arid regions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of salinity due to NaCl on germination of teff. A set of experiments was conducted under a completely randomized design with four replications of 200 seeds at two different suboptimal germination temperatures (15 and 25 °C) in the dark for 10 days. In order to create salt stress conditions during the germination process, seven solutions were used (0 as control, 80, 160, 240 and 320, 400 and 480 mM NaCl). The germination performance was evaluated by final germination percentage and mean germination time. The presence of NaCl reduced germination, especially above 240 mM for 15 °C and 400 mM for 25 °C. The mean germination time increased with higher NaCl levels.

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.

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.

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 to assess 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 stratification in two levels; the second factor was seven levels of pretreatments including 2, 4 and 6 hours’ 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.

Extended abstract Introduction: Niger with the scientific name of Guizotia abyssinica (L.F.) Cass. belongs to the Asteraceae family. Niger seed contains 50-75 percentage of oil which is used in the treatment of rheumatism and burns, and as a substitute for olive oil. Its meal is also used for animal feeding. Environmental crises sustained by living systems are considered as stress. Drought stress is one of the non-biological stresses. Yield reduction due to this type of stress is reported to be higher than that related to other stresses. Since plant development starts from germination and for survival, the seeds should germinate to adapt themselves to the environmental conditions and establish themselves in the soil, the success of passing the germination stage will play an important role in other stages of plant establishment. Different studies have shown the positive effect of magnetic field on increasing germination characteristics. In this regard, applying a magnetic field before planting is a safe and inexpensive method for increasing germination and seedling growth. Seed priming is useful for a faster and more powerful response to drought stress and among different types of priming, physical priming is of particular importance for ecological reasons and for not having a negative impact on the environment. Materials and Methods: In order to study the effect of seed physical pre-treatment and drought stress on seed germination characteristics of Niger, an experiment was conducted as factorial in a completely randomized design with three replications at the Research Laboratory of Seed Science and Technology at Shahrekord University. Different magnetic field intensities at five levels including (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mT (at 5 minutes period)) as the first factor and drought stress at five levels (0, -4, -5, -6 and -7 bar Polyethylene Glycol6000) as the second factor were considered. Results: The results of variance analysis showed that the effect of drought stress, magnetic field intensity and their interaction were significant on all of the evaluated characteristics. The maximum germination percentage and rate and the minimum of T10 and T50 were observed in 50 mT field intensity under normal conditions. The minimum germination index under normal conditions and the maximum length and shoot dry weight under non-treatment conditions and the maximum root and shoot fresh weight in 200 mT field intensity under normal conditions were obtained. The maximum root length and dry weight were observed in 50 and 100 mT field intensity under normal conditions, respectively. Conclusions: Seeds which cross through a magnetic field, become swollen and probably as a result, the activity of auxin hormone in these seeds increases. In addition, the respiration level also increases in them and they have higher levels of energy and activity, which results in faster and more uniform germination and the creation of stress-resistant plants. In this study, although by increasing drought stress intensity, negative effects were observed on germination characteristics, the magnetic field under these conditions improved some germination characteristics. In general, for the purpose of improving germination and alleviating drought stress conditions, for 0, -5 and -7 bar potentials, the field intensity of 50 mT and for -4 and -6 bar potentials, the field intensity of 150 mT are recommended. Highlights: The effect of magnetic field on germination of multipurpose seed of Niger plant. The effect of drought stress on germination of multipurpose seed of Niger plant, given Iran’s being located in dry belt. The positive effect of magnetic field on germination of Niger seed to improve the negative effects of drought stress.

Extended abstract Introduction: Generally speaking, plants contain various organic compounds which could influence the behavior of plant communities. These compounds are basically secondary metabolites which are found in various parts of plants such as rhizomes, roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds. The objective of the present study was to investigate the hetrotoxicity potential of different organs of Euphorbia maculata weed on traits of germination, chlorophyll and carotenoids pigments of wheat cultivars. Material and Methods: In this experiment Euphorbia maculate weed was collected at full maturity stage from the Moghan region, located in Ardebil Province. Then various organs of Euphorbia maculate such as stems, leaves, and fruits were separated from each other. Another treatment namely, a mixture of different organs, was also made. This experiment was carried out as a factorial, adopting a completely randomized design with three replications in Weeds Science Laboratory of Gonbad–e- Kavous University in 2017. The first factor was wheat cultivar at two levels, consisting of Morvarid and Gonbad and organs in 5 levels (control, stem, leaf, fruit and their mixture, with equal amount of each) were the second factor. For the bioassay experiment, from each organ and their mixture, 5% suspension (w/v) was prepared, using distilled water. 10 ml of concentrated extract of each organ was applied on 50 sterilized seeds of cultivars of interest in a petri dish containing filter paper. After 7 days, traits such as rate and percentage of germination, radical length, shoot length, seed length vigor index, chlorophyll a, b and total content and carotenoids content were measured. Results: The results showed that unlike the Morvarid cultivar, germination rate and germination percentage of the Gonbad cultivar significantly decreased, using aqueous extract of various organs of Euphorbia maculata and their mixture. The results also showed that the inhibition effect of fruit and leaf organs on the rate and germination percentage of the Gonbad cultivar were higher than that of other organs and their mixture. According to the results, stem, leaf and fruit extracts had a higher toxic effect on the radical length, compared with the shoot length of the Gonbad cultivar. The results of mean comparison also showed that seed length vigor index of the Morvarid and Gonbad cultivars decreased, due to hetrotoxic compounds of all organs of Euphorbia maculate. In terms of this trait, the highest significant decrease was found in the Gonbad cultivar, which was about 84.13%, compared with the control. In this study, the decreases in the photosynthesis pigments of total chlorophyll and carotenoids in both cultivars with aqueous extract of stem, leaf and fruit organs of Euphorbia maculata were different. The highest decrease of pigments was found in the fruit organ of the Morvarid cultivar. However, aqueous extract of mixed organs had a significant decrease and increase on the content of these pigments in the Morvarid and the Gonbad cultivars, respectively, as compared with the control. This may be due to differences in the quantity and quality of some allelochemicals as well as different reactions of the cultivars. Conclusions: Given the evidence of the hetrotoxicity potential of various organs of Euphorbia maculata weed on traits of germination as well as the chlorophyll and carotenoids content of wheat cultivars, it is advisable to exploit huge biomass generated by these luxuriantly growing weeds as bio-compounds in sustainable agriculture. Highlights: 1- Study of allelopathic effect of Euphorbia maculate on various wheat cultivars in farms of the Moghan plain. 2- Aqeous extract of Euphorbia maculate organs significantly reduces germination as well as seedling growth of the Gonbad cultivar.

Introduction: Quinoa, with the scientific name (Chenopodium quinoa Willd), belongs to the Spencer family. Seeds vigor can be improved with a variety of seed priming methods. In this method, the seeds are soaked in water or various osmotic solutions and then dried to the original moisture. After priming treatment, seeds are stored and cultivated as untreated seeds. Potassium nitrate is the most frequently used chemical for the purpose of increasing seed germination and is recommended by the Society of Official Seed Specialists and the International Association of Seed Testing for germination experiments of many species. In recent years, the use of nanoscale materials has been of great interest to researchers. Chitin, one of the most abundant polysaccharides in nature, is a polymer chain of N-acetyl glucosamine and is associated with other proteins and other organic compounds, and numerous industrial, pharmaceutical and agricultural applications have been reported for it. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of chitosan nanoparticles and potassium nitrate on some morphological characteristics, germination characteristics, chlorophyll content and relative humidity of quinoa plant. Materials and Methods: In order to investigate the effect of pretreatment of quinoa seeds with chitosan nanoparticles and potassium nitrate solution on the early stages of germination, a factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four replications in Seed Processing Laboratory, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran. Experimental treatments consisted of priming with chitosan nanoparticles in 4 levels (no primers, 0.01, 0.20 and 0.04% w / v) and potassium nitrate in 3 levels (no primers, 0.2 and 0.5% Weight percent) and hydroperime for 2 hours at 25° C. For each replicate of every treatment 100 seeds, using standard priming methods, were treated with the materials mentioned above and were dried in a petri dish on Watman paper No. 1 at 20 ± 1 ° C and relative humidity of 70% and 16 hours of daylight and 8 hours of darkness to make germination work. After that, germination percentage, root length, shoot length, germination coefficient, Allometric coefficient, relative water content, chlorophyll content a and b were measured, using standard methods. Results: Seed treatment with 0.2% potassium nitrate solution increased germination by 9% and treatment with chitosan 0.01% increased germination by 14%, compared with the non-primer treatment. The priming treatment with a 0.5% solution of potassium nitrate and 0.01% chitosan increased germination by 36%, compared to the non-primer treatment. Potassium nitrate increased root length by 25% and shoot length by 10%. In addition, chitosan 0.01% increased the root length by 6%, and seeds with chitosan 0.02% and potassium nitrate 0.2% increased the root length by 32%. The effects of potassium nitrate, chitosan and their interaction on chlorophyll a and b were significant at 1% probability level. The highest levels of chlorophyll a were obtained in 0.02% chitosan and 0.2% potassium nitrate. This formulation increased the chlorophyll a content by 33%. The highest amount of chlorophyll b was obtained by applying 0.01% chitosan and 0.5% potassium nitrate. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that treatment with 0.01% w/v chitosan and 0.5% w/v potassium nitrate resulted in the highest germination percentage, chlorophyll content a and b, relative water content, and stem length. Treatment with 0.02% chitosan and 0.2% potassium nitrate resulted in the highest allometric coefficient and root length. Highlights: Chitosan nano particle and potassium nitrate increase quinoa germination. Chitosan nano particle and potassium nitrate increase the content of chlorophyll a and b.

Given the medicinal and ornamental properties of Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), and given that there are some problems in its propagation, which is due to the hard cover of the seeds and immature embryo, working out techniques that can facilitate the process of seeds’ germination is of great import. Thus, the present study sought to identify the best method for the purpose of breaking the seed dormancy of 8 species of native hawthorn of Iran. The study was carried out as factorial with a completely randomized design and had three replications. The first, second and third factors were, respectively species of Hawthorn in eight levels, sulfuric acid in three levels (half and an hour versus non-treated (control) and chilling treatment in three levels (90, 105 and 120 days, respectively). The results showed that the highest percentage of germination (32%) and germination rate (9.1 day-1) were obtained under the interaction of sulfuric acid treatment for one hour, followed by a 120-day chilling period in C.turkestanica, which had a significant difference with other treatments. It is concluded that hawthorn seeds have deep endocarp and physiological dormancy. The interaction of Sulfuric acid treatment and moist chilling play an important role in increasing the percentage and speed of germination of Hawthorn seeds. Highlights: Achieving the best way to break the dormancy of Hawthorn seeds in different species and genotypes. Shortening the seeds’ germination time.

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.

In order to evaluate the allelopathic effect of aqueous extract of nine weeds species on Anise (Pimpinella anisum) seed germination and seedling growth characteristics, an experiment was conducted in the Laboratory of Yasouj University in 2014. This experiment was carried out as factorial with the aqueous extracts of nine weeds species, as the first factor, in different concentrations (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 g.l-1), as the second factor, in a completely randomized design with four replications. The results showed that interactions between different weed aqueous extracts and concentrations had a significant impact on the germination percentage and rate, root and shoot length and weight, and vigor of anise seeds at 1% probability. The most allelopathic effects on germination percentage and rate were observed in 10 g/l of the aqueous extract of Cowherb and Corn Buttercup, in 20 to 30 g/l of Corn Buttercup and Whitetop, and in 40 to 50 g.l-1 of Corn Buttercup, Whitetop, Wild lettuce and Cowherb, which completely stopped seed germination in Anise. Highlights: Allelopathic effects of 9 common weedy types on germination of Anise Seed were studied in Kohgiluyeh and Boyerahmad. The effect of different concentrations of aqueous extracts of weeds on germination characteristics of anise was studied.

Micronutrients play a great role in the production of high quality seeds, especially in terms of germination. Therefore, providing seeds with sufficient amounts of these is an important consideration in seed production. The present study was conducted as two separate experiments in the Seed Laboratory of Yasouj University in 2015. In the first experiment, the sesame seeds (cv. Darab 1) obtained from a previous split plot experiment based on RCBD, consisting of three irrigation levels (after 75, 110 and 145 mm evaporation from class A pan) and four foliar applications comprising water, zinc sulfate, boric acid and mixture of zinc sulfate and boric acid, were investigated in germination experiments in the minimum temperature (i.e., 15°C). The second experiment was a factorial based on RCD with three replications. The first factor in the eight levels included seeds soaked in water, ZnSo4, H3Bo3 and ZnSo4 + H3Bo3 and seeds with high contents of Zn (159 m Kg-1), B (15.3 m Kg-1) and Zn (139.5 m Kg-1)+ B (14 m Kg-1) and dry see as the control. The second factor was accelerated aging periods at three levels (0, 2 and 4 days) at 45°c and RH = 100%. The results showed that with a delay in irrigation time, compared with water foliar application, foliar application of micronutrients (Zn, B, Zn+B), and significantly increased germination traits. The results also suggested that, compared with seeds soaked in nutrients, seeds with high Zn and B contents significantly increased germination indices and antioxidant (catalase and peroxidase) activities, especially under accelerated seed aging. Highlights: The role of maternal sesame plant (cv. Darab 1) foliar application by zinc and boron elements in germination, vigour and storage capability of seeds was studied. The effect of seeds soaked in solutions enriched with zinc and boron elements on germination, vigour and storage capability of seeds was examined.

Gaining insights into the germination and emergence patterns of weeds as well as the factors which have an impact on these patterns is beneficial for weeds management programs. In order to investigate the effect of temperature, waterlogging and salinity on germination and emergence of common lambsquarters, three separate experiments were conducted, adopting a completely randomized design with four replications. The results of the temperature experiment showed that the highest germination percentages, which were 87, 93 and 88%, were obtained in the temperature range of 15, 20 and 25°C, respectively. Maximum values of germination rate, radicle length, plumule length, and seedling dry weight were obtained at 20°C. In addition, optimum seed vigor index of 796.29 was observed at 20°C. The results of the Regression Model showed that germination percentage decreased with an increase in waterlogging duration and halted after 8 and 10 days of consecutive waterlogging. Mean comparisons revealed that radicle and plumule length, seedling dry weight and vigor index decreased significantly by increasing the period of waterlogging. Salinity adversely affected germination percentage, germination rate and seedling dry weight of common lambsquarters. These factors were at their highest amounts in the control and 50 mM NaCl treatments. A downward trend was observed in these factors as NaCl concentrations increased and finally the germination process stopped in concentrations ranging from 300 to 400 mM NaCl. Radicle and plumule length also decreased from 10.51 and 9.23 cm in the control treatment to 3.57 and 2.47 cm at 250 mM NaCl. Overall, the results revealed that the maximum seed vigor index of 851.84 was obtained in the control treatment and seed vigor halted when the salinity level increased to more than 250 mM NaCl. Finally, the results showed that optimum temperature for germination of common lamsquarters was 20 °C and the existence of salinity and waterlogging stress can decrease growth indices of this weed at germination and seedling stages.

The aim of this study is to investigate the phytotoxic effects of Cadmium (Cd) on germination and the early seedling growth of Allium cepa in the Faridabad district, India. The cadmium poses a major threat to agriculture and human health. Seeds of three different onion cultivars were exposed to five different Cd concentrations (20; 40; 60; 80 and 100 ppm). The germination percentage, germination index and growth parameters such as plumule and radical growth were compared to the untreated seeds. The inhibitory effects on the germination of onion seedlings and the inhibition was observed at 80 ppm and 100 ppm. The increased concentration of cadmium is directly proportional to the inhibitory effects on the seedling germination, and the root and shoot length of Allium. Pusa Ridhi performed better under Cd stress, while Pusa Madhavi had poor performance. Later, there had been a maximum decrease in seedling length (3.97 %), germination percentage (53.33 %) and the germination index (1.353%) at 100 ppm. Tolerance index varied among the onion cultivars; maximum tolerance index was observed in Pusa Ridhi followed by Pusa Red and Pusa Madhavi. From these results, it is evident that Pusa Ridhi could germinate effectively in soils contaminated with Cd, however, further studies are needed to signify its effects on the growth and yield of onions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed germination indices can be affected by drought stress in ripening stage of seeds on mother plant. In this study, four water stress treatments (100, 75, 50 and 25% of field capacity (FC)) were imposed during seed maturation of Satureja hortensis, and subsequently the effects of treatment on seed germination characteristics of S. hortensis were evaluated using a completely randomized design with four replications. The number of germinated seeds was counted each day and sampled after ten days. Then, percentage,rate of germination, vigor, mean daily germination, final germination percentage, daily germination speed, germination index and length of shoot and root were determined. The results indicated that the drought stress had a significant (P

Introduction The plant hormones such as salicylic acid and gibberellin can affect the quantity and quality of crops. External application of plant growth regulators as a strategy for improving salt tolerance in plants is discussed. Foreign Salicylic acid can regulate antioxidant enzyme activity and increase plant resistance to abiotic stresses. Salicylic acid reduction due to ethylene through the effect on the mechanisms of enzymatic and non-enzymatic of plant improves oxidative stress protection. Gibberellic acid increased amylase activity in the cotyledons of mung bean seedlings. Gibberellin are for the elongation of cells in the embryo and endosperm during seed germination. Materials and Methods In order to evaluate the effect of salicylic acid and gibberellin on yield and yield components of mung bean, an experiment was conducted using factorial experiment in the form of RCBD with three replications at Research Farm of Agro-Industry Center of Goharkooh Khash (Iran) in 2014. In this experiment salicylic acid was used at four different concentrations including A1 (0 ppm [control]), A2 (25 ppm), A3 (50 ppm) and A4 (100 ppm) as first factor and gibberellin in three different concentrations B1 (0 ppm [control]), B2 (50 ppm) and B3 (100 ppm) as second factor. Agricultural traits including plant height, forage yield, dry matter yield, grain yield, 1000 seed weight and harvest index. Results and Discussions The results showed that in the treatment of 50 ppm of salicylic acid the highest dry matter yield was obtained by 1837 kg per hectare and 49% increase compared to the control, 513.3 kg per hectare grain yield by 36.19% increase compared to control, and harvest index also amounted to 27.11 percent compared to the control was 30/76%. In the treatment of 100 ppm gibberellin best dry matter yield by 1469.36 kg per hectare and 20.9% increase compared with the control, grain yield by 508.08 kg per hectare yield and 31.09% increase compared to control, and harvest index by 25.66 percent and 20.45% compared to control increased, respectively. It seems that salicylic acid and gibberellin increased cell division in the meristem plantlets and thus improved the plant growth. Salicylic acid and gibberellin through proper inflammatory cells, increase division, elongation and cell differentiation, the allocation of the substances synthesized for growth and prolong the period of growth may rise to normal cells, and thus increase the plant height. The comparison shows that primed seeds to create favorable conditions by increasing plant height, relative water content, proline content and soluble sugar content reduction was significantly increased plant biomass and grain yield. Vetch dry matter accumulation yield, plant height and yield of forage plants can be attributed to a high levelof dry matter accumulation in different parts of the plant. Concentrations of salicylic acid and gibberellin treatments, have increasd plant height and ultimately produced a better performance. The use of these plant hormones can increase the rate of photosynthesis and the transfer of materials to the seeds. Reserves accumulated in the stem before pollination can also in some plants be used for grain filling, in addition to the present assimilate used, resulting in an increase in harvest index contributed. Foreign Salicylic acid can regulate antioxidant enzyme activity and increase plant resistance to abiotic stresses. Salicylic acid reduction due to ethylene through the effect on the mechanisms of enzymatic and non-enzymatic of plant improves oxidative stress protection. Gibberellic acid increased amylase activity in the cotyledons of mung bean seedlings. Gibberellin are for the elongation of cells in the embryo and endosperm during seed germination. Conclusion The results showed that in the treatment of 50 ppm of salicylic acid the highest dry matter yield was obtained by 1837 kg per hectare and 49% increase compared to the control, 513.3 kg per hectare grain yield by 36.19% increase compared to control, and harvest index also amounted to 27.11% compared to the control was 30/76%. In the treatment of 100 ppm gibberellin best dry matter yield by 1469.36 kg per hectare and 20.9% increase compared with the control, grain yield by 508.08 kg per hectare yield and 31.09% increase compared to control, and harvest index by 25.66 percent and 20.45% compared to control increased, respectively. In general it can be stated that salicylic acid and gibberellin have positive and significant impact on traits, and vetch plants grow better with treatment of 50 ppm of salicylic acid and 100 ppm of gibberellin. Key words: Dry matter yield, Fabaceae, Germination percentage, Growth regulators, Harvest index, Plant hormones

Seed priming is a method which is a quite effective method for improving germination and seedling establishment. Two separate experiments were performed to determine the best hydro and osmopriming treatments effects on canola‘s seed germination. The experiments were performed in seed technology laboratory of Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran, 2014. The first experiment contained three canola varieties seeds hydropriming (Okapi, Zarfam and Talayeh) using tap water over time interval 0. 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 20 and 24 hours. The second experiment included, tree canola cultivars in accompany with six concentrations of ZnS04 (0, 0.035, 0.1, 0.4, 1 and 4 gr.Lit-1) over priming time interval of 0, 6, 10 14 and 18 hours. Both experiments were conducted as a factorial experiment in the context of completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications. The results revealed that the maximum germination percentage across all cultivars e.g. Okapi (99%), Zarfam (95%) and Talayeh (80%) is achieved at 10 hours hydropriming interval. Also concerning to germination rate, the best performance was observed for Talayeh cultivar at 10 hydropriming hour’s interval. The most vigor longitudinal and vigor weighted indices (1050.55 and 4.56) were observed in the Okapi cultivar in the fourth hydropriming level. The interaction between the cultivars, the concentration of ZnS04 and osmopriming time was significant for all characters except for shoot dry weight and vigor weighted Index. The three-way interaction showed that the highest shoots dry weight (0.11, 0.057 and 0.055) and also vigor weighted index observed in Okapi, Zarfam and Talayeh cultivar in 0.035 concentration of ZnS04 (gr.lit-1) at the time was 10 hours, respectively. The results of this study showed that hydropriming and ZnS04 might improve the performance of rapeseed Cultivars seed.

The seeds of two species (Citrulus colocynthis) and (Silybum mrianum) gathered from natural habitat located in the Koohdasht city (Lorestan province) and transferred to Kermanshah Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center in the summer of 2014. For each species, separate experiments in a completely randomized design with 14 treatments and 4 replications were done. Treatments included moist-chilling time (control, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 70 and 90 days at 4 °C), gibberellic acid concentration (200, 400, 600 and 800 PPM) and integrated treatment of gibberellic acid 400 ppm with moist-chilling for 30 days and 70 days. The results showed that for both species increasing of moist-chilling duration and concentration of gibberellic acid significantly increased germination percentage, germination rate and seed vigor index. The best breaking seed dormancy treatment was moist-chilling of 90 days for seeds of (Citruluus colocynthis) and gibberellic acid 800 ppm for (Silybum mrianum). The result showed that seeds of two species had the combination of physiological (related to seed inside inhibitors) and physical dormancy (related to hard coat).

To study allelopatic effect of sweet bay essence concentrations (0, 100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm) on germination and early establishment of velvetleaf and field bindweed an experiment was conducted at Islamic Azad University of Tabriz, Iran, during 2013. Results indicated that germination percentage of non-treated seeds was 73.3%, and that of treated seeds 64.7%. Plant height at 400 ppm concentration was shorter than other treatments. Mean leaf area per plant of weeds ranged from 13.5 cm2 in control up to 9.7 cm2 in 300 ppm and 400 ppm concertrations. Dry weight per weed plant of the seeds treated with 300 and 400 ppm concentrations was twice lower than of untreated seeds. Vigor index of seedling from seeds treated with 100 and 200 ppm essence and control were 1.5, 1.5 and 2.6 times higher than those treated with 300-400 ppm, respectively. Regression analysis showed that germination percentage, leaf area and dry weight per plant did have higher effect on seedling vigor index. It can be concluded that essential oil of sweet-bay may have potential in controlling weeds, especially in the higher concentrations. Therefor, it could be used in the synthesis of bioherbicides compounds to control weeds.

In order to determinate the cardinal temperatures and investigate the effect of temperature on seed germination and seedling growth of Securigera securidaca, a study was conducted in a completely randomized design with 8 temperature treatments (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40oC) and four replications in research laboratory of faculty of agriculture at the Birjand University in 2013. A two-segmented linear regression model was fitted between germination rate and temperatures to determine cardinal temperatures for germination. Cardinal (minimum, optimum and maximum) temperatures of germination were determined as -1, 22.5 and 40.2oC respectively. Maximum rate and percentage of germination obtained in the range of 20-25oC. Maximum of radicle length and dry weight, maximum of caulicle length and dry weight and maximum of vigor seedling were obtained in 20oC,10-20oC and 5-30oC respectively. Maximum and minimum germination uniformity (GU) was obtained in 25 and 5oC.

To evaluate the interaction of Cd and SA on seed germination of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L. cv. Soffe), this experiment was carried out as a factorial based on CRD with four replications in 2012, in Yasouj University seed lab. Factors included of four levels of seed priming with SA (0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 mM) and eight levels of cadmium nitrate (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 mM). In all Cd treatments, SA 0.9 mM had maximum germination percentage (84% in 0 mM Cd) and rate (6.58 seed day-1 in 5 mM Cd), radical length (4.21 cm in 0 mM Cd) and stem (3.29 cm in 0 mM Cd), radical dry mater (2.25 mg in 0 mM Cd), shoot dry matter (0.94 mg in 0 mM Cd) and seed vigor index (6.30 in 0 mM Cd). Generally, seed priming with SA decreased the impact of Cd on seed germination and SA 0.9 mM was the best treatment.

Brassinosteroids (BRs) play an important role in the growth and development of plants. Herein, we describe the synthesis of epimeric mixtures of BR analogs with 24-norcholane type side chains, S/R configuration at C22 and A/B ring cis-type fusion. All epimeric mixtures were synthetized from hyodeoxycholic acid. The biological activity of mixtures was evaluated by using rice lamina inclination test and germination of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) seeds. The results show that these epimeric mixtures exhibit similar bioactivity to brassinolide in both bioassays. Thus, our results corroborate that the A/B junction has almost no effect on bioactivity and open the possibility of using epimeric mixtures instead of pure compounds. In this approach, the synthesized BR analogs maintain a good level of bioactivity, whereas the synthesis is shorter, cheaper and with higher yields. All these factors make this alternative very interesting for potential application.

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 °C) and leaves were sprayed at seedling stage (4 °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.

The experiment was conducted to investigate the seed quality of Indian spinach for three months stored at different containers (Plastic pot, polythene bag and cloth bag) during 2013-2014 at Seed Technology Laboratory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur. The initial moisture content of the seed was 9.89% with 75.00% germination. However, after two months, the seed had a different range of increased moisture content with reduced germination percentage depending upon the packing materials. Among the three containers, seeds stored at cloth bag absorbed more moisture (14.36%) from surrounding atmosphere followed by the moisture content, 12.67% and 11.50% of polythene bag and airtight plastic pot, respectively. Seeds stored at plastic pot, polythene bag and cloth bag exhibited 65.00, 64.00 and 50.00 per cent germination, respectively. Similarly, the fresh weight and dry weight of seedling and seedling vigor were also decreased. The seeds of plastic pot were good in term of germination capacity, fresh and dry weight and vigor index in comparison to those stored at cloth bag and polythene bag.

This study was conducted to determine the responses of some alfalfa varieties to different drought stress at germination stage. Alfalfa varieties Bilensoy-80, Alsancak, Gözlü-1, Prosementi and Isıde were used as plant materials. Four different drought stress levels (0, -2.95, -4.91 and -10.27 bar) were handled in this study and were used Polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000) to create of drought stress at different levels. The experiment was conducted as completely randomized design with two factors and four replications. In the experiment, some characters such as germination percentage, plumula length, radicle length and vigour index were examined. The results revealed that drought stress had a significant effect on all characters. Germination percentage, plumula length, radicle length, and vigour index ranged 0.00-99.50 %, 0.00-43.24 mm, 0.00-54.45 mm and 0.00-43.79, respectively. Considering germination percentage, the cultivars tolerated the drought stress up to-4.91 bar, but after this level germination percentage decreased significantly. In terms of plumula length and vigour index, the cultivars tolerated the drought stress up to -2.95 bar and in terms of radicle length the cultivars tolerated the drought stress up to -4.91 bar and were observed a significant decreases or deaths after this levels. Bilensoy-80 and Alsancak had been more successful for drought than the other varieties in experiment.

Due to the importance of medicinal plants, understanding the seed germination response to temperature is agronomically important. A laboratory study was conducted to investigate the effect of different temperatures on seed germination of fennel, cannabis and sesame in a completely randomized design with four replications. Various constant temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40°C) were considered. According to the results, the effect of temperature on germination rate and percentage in all species was significant. The seeds of fennel were not germinated in 5, 35 and 40 0C and seeds of sesame germinated only in 5 0C. The maximum rate of germination obtained in 30 °C for fennel and 25 °C for sesame and cannabis. The highest germination percentage of fennel and cannabis and sesame were in 20, 25 and 30 0C respectively. The lowest of germination uniformity (GU) were observed in 20 0C for fennel and in 15 0C for cannabis and sesame. Amount of seedling vigor maximized for fennel and cannabis in 250C and for sesame in the 300C. The values of length and weight of radical and plumule were enhanced with the increase of temperature and record on maximum in special temperature and then reduced slowly. The quantitative information provided by this study can be used in prediction of emergence under diverse temperature conditions. Germination of cannabis seeds occurred in a wide range of temperatures and this seed are less sensitive to temperature compared to the other two plants. Germination of fennel seeds was less, except at 200C. The sesame seeds had good germination at 15-35 0C.

Seed pretreated with plant growth regulators can improve germination parameters, growth, and yield of crops. Thus, in two greenhouse and field experiments, effects of seed treatment with 0.1 mM salicylic acid (SA), 1µM methyl jasmonate (MJ), 1.5% humic acid (HA), and water (as Control) on germination parameters, seedling growth, and also growth and fruit yield were studied. In the first experiment which was conducted on two cultivars (Semsuri and Shahpasandi), all the treatments improved most of parameters the recorded, and the response of two cultivars was rather similar for most parameters. In the second experiment which was conducted on one cultivar (Shahpasandi) in the field, all the treatments improved most of parameters the recorded. Compared with the control, SA, MJ and HA increased total plant fresh weight (19, 41 and 19%), fruit number (30, 35 and 20%) and fruit yield (31, 45 and 31), respectively. Significant correlations were found between fruit yield and relative water content (r = -0.95*), ion leakage (r = -0.93*), final plant shoot fresh weight (r = 0.99**) and fruit number (r = 0.93*), indicating that treatments could increase fruit yield by improving ion leakage and relative water content.

The effect of seed rate of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and efficiency of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPR) that facilitates phosphorus uptake with different doses of phosphate fertilizer was evaluated on seed quality. For this purpose, the germination and seed vigor tests before and after accelerated aging were performed in a split split plot experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replications in 2010 in the field of education and research in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tehran University, Karaj. Phosphorus factor at 4 levels (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg Phosphorus.ha-1) in main plots, PGPR (Pseudomonas) in three levels (no bacteria, bacterial strains, No. 9 and bacterial strains No. 41) in subplots and rate of seed factors on three levels (2, 6, and 10 kg of seed per hectare) were the sub-subplots. The results showed the highest rate of germination and seed vigor obtained by use of 6 kg seeds per hectare, PGPR No.41 strains with 30 kg Phosphorus per hectare and after accelerated aging. The highest rate of germination and seed vigor at 10 kg of seed per hectare were found for PGPR No.41 strains, with 60 kg Phosphorus ha-1 treatments. After accelerated aging practices to achieve maximum germination index and vigor, seed rates and phosphorus requirement were more than standard conditions. Based on obtained results for the storage conditions, bacterial strains No. 41 had a better effect on increasing seed vigor than bacterial strains No. 9. To produce alfalfa seed with high vigor and obtain better results, use of optimum seed rates and phosphorus (6 and 30 kg.ha-1, respectively) along with PGPR (strain No. 41) could be considered in crop plants.

Osmotic stress is the most important of the abiotic stresses that lead to limitation of growth and yield in rapeseed. This study was conducted to examine the effect of cycocel seed priming on osmotic stress tolerance in germination and early growth stages of rapeseed, as a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design at Agriculture College of Shiraz University in 2012. The treatments included seed priming in three cycocel concentrations: 0 (without priming as control), 2.5 and 3.5 g L-1 and osmotic stress in five levels: 0 (as control), -0.3, -0.6, -0.9 and -1.2 MPa using polyethylene glycol. The results showed that osmotic stress was significantly reduced germination percentage (15.1%), germination rate (15.3%), radicle length (29.5%), plumule length (31.6%), radicle fresh weight (22.4%), plumule fresh weight (37.6%) and vigor index (39.9%). Furthermore, osmotic stress leads to increase radicle to plumule fresh weight and radicle to plumule length ratio as 6.8 and 24.3 percent, respectively. Seed priming with cycocel reduced the adverse effects of osmotic stress on measured parameters. Although, there was no positive effect on germination percentage and rate under osmotic and nonosmotic conditions for cycocel in both concentrations, but cycocel at 3.5 g L-1 appeared to have a greater positive effect than 2.5 g L-1. Considering positive impact of cycocel seed priming on the reduction adverse effects of osmotic stress further research on cycocel seed priming and osmotic stress tolerance is recommended under field conditions.

Salinity is one of the most extensive environmental stresses and is a limiting factor for the growth and development of crops, such as rice. Then, an experiment based upon completely randomized design with four low levels (0, 7.5, 15, 22.5) and four high of salinity (75, 150, 225 and 300 mM) with control as the first factor and nine cultivars of rice (dollars, Hasan Saraii, Mousa Tarom, Kamfiruz, Lenjan Askari, Gharib, Domsiah Mamassani, 304, Champa Yasouj) as the second factor with three replications was conducted in 2012 in the Yasouj University. Results showed that Hasan Saraii had salinity tolerance with the most germination percentage, germination rate and shoot length at high salinity levels (more than 75 mM), and Domsiah Mamassani with the minimum of that traits had not any salinity tolerance. But in the low salinity (less than 22.5 mM), Hasan Saraii, Lenjan and Mousa Tarom had the highest percentage of germination. The maximum germination rate was due to Mousa Tarom and the maximum shoot length observed in Gharib variety. So it seems, if we would only consider the germination percentage, Hasan Saraii is the best variety and if the maximum germination percentage and rate are considered, the variety that would be considered is Mousa Tarom. Therefore, high salinity we should not just rely on the germination but the germination rate should also be noted and in lower salinity due to different cultivars germination percentage, germination rate and dry weight of root should be paid much more attention.

To evaluate the effects of accelerated aging and seed coat scarification with Hydrochloric acid (HCl) on seed germination characteristics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) c.v. Kaka, a factorial experiment was conducted in completely randomized design with two factors in laboratory condition. Factors were three levels of accelerated aging for zero, 24 and 48 hours by 45°C and 100% relative humidity and 8 levels of Hydrochloric acid treatments of seeds (dry seed as chickpea), immersion in 0 (distilled water), 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 normal HCl for half an hours. Results showed that accelerated seed aging and HCl treatments both reduced percent and speed of seed germination, epicotyl and root length. Accelerated seed aging increased the negative effects of HCl treatments. Only hydro-priming improved seed germination characteristics in all accelerated aging treatments. On the basis of the results of this experiment, treatment with HCl isn’t a suitable treatment for chickpea seed priming.

Karafs Kouhi (Kelussia odoratissima M.) is one of the important medicinal plants of umbelliferae family and native of Zagros Mountains range, which is endangered due to illegal harvests. In order to accelerate breaking the seed dormancy of this plant, a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with four replications, was carried in Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University. The seeds of Karafs Kouhi from Saraghaseyed ecotype were treated under three time periods (25, 50, 75 and 100 days after planting), combination of enzylaminopurine (BAP) (concentrations of 0, 0.75 and 1.5 mg/L) and gibberellic acid (GA3) (concentrations of 0, 250 and 500 mg/L) and application methods of these growth regulators (soaking seeds in the growth regulators and use of growth regulators directly on the medium). In this experiment, germination percentage, rootlet length and hypocotyl length were studied. The results indicated that 100 days after planting significantly (P≥0.01) showed the highest rates in the three studied traits. In this treatment, the germination percentage was 86.94%, rootlet length was 9.43 cm and hypocotyl length was 11.64 cm. Moreover, the interaction of the factors was not significant for all the traits. The best combination to increase germination percent, rootlet length and germination rate, was 0.75 mg/L BAP, 500 mg/L GA3 and direct use of growth regulators. To increase hypocotyl length, only 500 mg/L GA3 is recommended.

Effect of seed-priming with potassium (K) sources (K-nano-chelate, KNC, and sulfate (0, 2 and 4 %)) under drought stress (DS) conditions (0, -0.3, -0.6, -0.9, -1.2 and -1.5 MPa water potential) on the corn seedling traits was studied. Drought stress decreased the germination indices and seedling vigor. The highest germination, seminal root fresh and dry mass (RFM and RDM) was obtained in KNC primed seeds at -0.3 MPa DS. Mean germination time increased under DS conditions mainly in non-primed seeds. Increasing DS to -1.2 MPa led to decrease in RFM and RDM. Influence of DS on the fresh mass of shoots was more severe than on seminal roots. The highest shoots and seminal roots length was observed in 4 % KNC without any DS. Proper priming can be suggested to increase the plant tolerance under DS.

In order to study the effect of sodium chloride (NaCl), as a salinity stress factor, on sour orange seed germination indices, an experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with 3 replica‌tions (each replication included 20 seeds) at the University of Guilan, in 2009. NaCl levels were 0, 7.8, 15.6 and 23.4 dS/m. The results showed that various levels of NaCl had significant effect on all the studied traits. Seed germination in 23.4 dS/m treatment started later than other treatments. The highest germination was in control and 7.8 dS/m NaCl treatments. The 15.6 and 23.4 dS/m NaCl treatments had the least germination percentage (85.7 and 46.9%, respectively). The highest germination index (length of germination period) was in 23.4 dS/m treatment followed by 15.6 and 7.8 dS/m and control with no significant difference. T50 was highest in 23.4 dS/m and lowest in control treatments. Mean daily germination, seed growth rate and seed vigor were highest in control treatment, with no significant difference with 7.8 dS/m treatment. Overall, it was found that germination of sour orange seeds is resistant to 7.8 dS/m NaCl, and they are able to germinate and grow in saline soils, as well.