Impact of biologically active substances on seed germination and seedling growth of amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus)

Abstract

Amaranth is a neglected pseudocereal with quick growing nature and multipurpose in use. Plant growth promoting properties of succinic acid have been proved with fungicidal effects against mold growth on seeds, which makes it highly effective in ameliorating the sowing quality of amaranth seeds after long time storage. Moreover, succinic acid significantly effects seedlings growth and development, and stimulates the accumulation of total antioxidants and ascorbic acid in the leaves. This study was conducted during 2019 at Department of AgroBiotechnology, RUDN University, Moscow to analyze the effect of the treatments “Amir” and fertilizer “Lignohumate” on seed germination and seedlings growth compared to the control (water treatment) and succinic acid. These experimental treatments indicated various efficacy, selectively affecting several indicators depending on the sowing quality of the seeds. However, significantly positive effect of the phytopreparations “Amir” on the total content of antioxidants in the leaves of amaranth seedlings. Succinic acid had a favorable impact on the accumulation of antioxidants in both the samples. Succinic acid and Lignohumate had similar efficacy on the accumulation of ascorbic acid in the leaves of both samples. Overall, pre-seeding treatment with Amir on the weaker sample 8 (poor germinating capacity and susceptible to mold damage) showed a significant enhancement in the amount of ascorbic acid.