Vol. 12, Special Issue 10 (2023)

Author(s):
Luna Barooah, Aradhana Bordoloi, Priyam Nandini Baruah, Swarup Anand Dutta and Sibani Das

Abstract:
Seed augmentation methods are employed to enhance germination rates, boost seedling strength, overcome germination limitations through consistent plant stands, expedite crop growth, and achieve improved yields. Seed enhancement techniques involve priming, different seed treatments including magnetic field, electric field, hormonal seed treatment, radiation seed treatment, plasma seed treatment etc. The increased germination rate of primed seeds can be attributed to enzymatic stimulation, accumulation of metabolites that promote germination, metabolic restoration during imbibition, and osmotic regulation. The speedy germination, consistent crop emergence, high yield, and mitigation of disease susceptibility can be ensured through magnetic and electric fields. Nano-priming offers a countless of benefits to seed performance, including elevated ∞-amylase activity, elevated levels of soluble sugars to foster initial seedling growth, upregulating the expression of aquaporin genes within seeds, diminished ROS production resulting in enhanced stress resilience, and the formation of nanopores to facilitate improved water absorption. A special technique called plasma treatment of seeds uses ionised gases to change the chemical and physical characteristics of the seeds.