Hormopriming and duration of priming interaction on germination, emergence and subsequent growth productivity performance in pechay

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This study investigated the potential of Ficus nota water (FNW) as a natural soaking agent to enhance seed germination, emergence, and subsequent growth performance in Pechay (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis). Utilizing varying FNW concentrations (0%, 50%, and 100%) and seed soaking durations (2, 4, 6 hours), the research aimed to identify optimal treatment combinations for maximizing pre-transplant vigor and post-transplant productivity of Pechy. The results revealed a significant interaction between FNW concentration and soaking time, accelerating germination onset and promoting germination percentage. Notably, the 50% FNW treatment coupled with the 4-hour soaking duration expedited germination by 60% compared to the untreated control. This optimal priming combination also positively influenced seedling height, root proliferation, and biomass accumulation during the pre-transplant nursery stage. Post-transplantation, FNW-primed seedlings exhibited taller stems and broader leaves compared to non-primed controls. However, despite enhancing vegetative growth, priming did not translate into increased biomass yields, suggesting potential trade-offs in resource allocation patterns. The findings highlight the efficacy of FNW in expediting germination and enhancing nursery vigor, while underscoring the need for further investigations into the mechanisms governing the translation of early growth promotion into marketable yields under field conditions. This research contributes valuable insights into the application of natural plant extracts for optimizing seed priming protocols and potentially improving crop productivity.