RESPONSES OF SEED GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH OF DIFFERENT MAIZE HYBRIDS TO LOW POSITIVE TEMPERATURE STRESS

Abstract

The article presents an assessment of the resistance of various maize hybrids (Por. 180, Bemo 203, Por. 374, Por. 427 and Por. 310) to the shock of low positive temperatures based on changes in the germination and growth rates of seedlings. Six low positive temperature levels were used, including 1, 2, 4, 9, 16, and 26°C. Shock with low positive temperatures for 24 hours did not cause significantly changes in the final rate of germination.Treatment of seeds of maize hybrids with shock of positive low temperatures of 4°C, 2°C and 1°C for 24 hours had a significant impact on the radicle’s length and epicotyl’s height. These low positive temperatures predominantly influenced the growth of the epicotyls. According to the ratio between the biomass of roots and epicycles, it was shown that under the action of shock with low positive temperatures for 24 hours, Por 310 had the highest, and Por. 427 - the lowest root viability.