Total Seedling Research Articles

Aluminum and UV-C light on seed germination and initial growth of white oats

ABSTRACT Aluminum (Al) may be beneficial to crops, but in excess becomes detrimental to the germination and initial development of seedlings. The main determining indicators are the type of crop and exposure duration. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of Al and of UV-C light on the germination and initial growth of white oats. Seeds were sown on germitest paper in a solution of 100, 200, 300, 400, or 500 mg/L of aluminum chloride and kept in a germination chamber at 20°C for a 12-hr photoperiod. Germination and seedling growth parameters were determined after 5 and 10 days. The seeds were also exposed to two doses of UV-C (0.85 and 3.42 kJ m−2) under aluminum chloride stress (200 mg/L). Data demonstrated that treatment with aluminum chloride significantly decrease in germination at 200 mg/L and total seedling length at 100 mg/L. Exposure of seeds to UV-C light under excess Al (200 mg/L) did not show a significant effect on germination and growth compared to control (non-irradiated). Results indicated that exposure to high concentration of Al in the medium adversely altered germination and initial growth of white oat seedlings. Although UV-C light alone was not detrimental to the germination process, treatment with UV-C light also failed to mitigate the toxic effects of Al.

Seedling ecology of Aucoumea klaineana Pierre, the most important timber species in Central Africa

Aucoumea klaineana Pierre is the most exploited timber species in Central Africa. In natural forests, its regeneration is hindered by various factors, including limited light availability and pest attacks. To address these challenges and develop effective forest management practices, a comprehensive understanding of A. klaineana seedling ecology is necessary. This study investigated the light requirements and pest resistance of A. klaineana seedlings under different light conditions through an 18-month experiment conducted in Gabon. Six shade houses with varying light intensities were constructed, ranging from 1 % to 62 % of full irradiance, along with an unshaded platform representing 100 % light. Six-month-old seedlings were planted among shade houses and platform and monitored monthly for growth parameters (relative growth rate in height and diameter), morphological parameters (number of leaves, both total and compound) and mortality. Productivity (total seedling biomass), biomass allocation traits (leaves, roots, and stem mass ratios), number of branches, and symptoms of pests attacks were assessed after 18 months. Resultsreveal that light conditions influence seedling performance, with optimal levels for biomass and relative growth rate in diameter and height identified between 9 % and 62 % of relative irradiance. However, pest infestation, particularly by psyllids and black canker, poses substantial threats to seedling growth, health, and form, regardless of light conditions. Pest attacks had a significant impact on growth but not on survival, which remained high (97.1 %) even under extreme lights conditions (1 % and 100 % of relative irradiance). The findings underscore the importance of integrating pest management strategies and adapting silvicultural practices to meet the species’ ecological requirements. We suggest planting A. klaineana in small groups (to allow root anastomoses), separated by other species (to limit pest contamination), under light canopy cover (around 9–62 % of relative irradiance, to promote sustained growth rates at the seedling stage). This approach should ensure the conservation of A. klaineana populations and the long-term viability of Central Africa's timber industry.

NaHS immersion alleviates the stress effect of chromium(III) on alfalfa seeds by affecting active oxygen metabolism

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effects of exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on seed germination, seedling growth, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis in alfalfa under chromium (Cr) ion (III) stress. Methods The effects of 0–4 mM Cr(III) on the germination and seedling growth of alfalfa were first assessed. Subsequently, following seed NaHS immersion, the influence of H2S on alfalfa seed germination and seedling growth under 2 mM Cr(III) stress was investigated, and the substance contents and enzyme activities associated with ROS metabolism were quantified. Results Compared to the control group, alfalfa plant germination was delayed under 2 mM Cr(III) stress for up to 48 h (p < 0.05). At 120 h, the total seedling length was approximately halved, and the root length was roughly one-third of the control. Treatment with 0.02–0.1 mM NaHS alleviated the delay in germination and root growth inhibition caused by 2 mM Cr(III) stress, resulting in an increased ratio of root length to hypocotyl length from 0.57 to 1 above. Additionally, immersion in 0.05 mM NaHS reduced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and oxygen-free radicals (O2 · –) levels (p < 0.05), boosted glutathione (GSH) levels (p < 0.05), and notably enhanced catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities (p < 0.05) compared to the 2 mM Cr(III) stress treatment group. Conclusion Seed immersion in NaHS mitigated the delay in germination and inhibition of root elongation under 2 mM Cr(III) stress. This effect is likely attributed to the regulation of intracellular ROS homeostasis and redox balance through enzymatic and non-enzymatic systems; thus, providing a potential mechanism for combating oxidative stress.

Natural regeneration of cork oak forests under climate change: a case study in Portugal

The sustainability of forest species is directly related to the success of stand regeneration. Assuring success is particularly critical in stands where perpetuity relies on natural regeneration, as is often the case with cork oak forests. However, 59% of the stand in Portugal have no natural regeneration, and climate change could further worsen the sustainability of the system. The study summarizes the factors that affect the natural regeneration of cork oak (Quercus suber L.) based on current knowledge and presents a case study on a forest in Northeast Portugal, where the natural regeneration of Quercus suber under the effect of climate change have been monitored and analyzed. The present work focuses on the effect of stand density, i.e., tree cover, on the production of acorns, the establishment and survival of seedlings, and the impact of the summer season on seedling mortality. The monitoring was carried out in February, June, September 2022, and January 2023 in two stands with distinct stand canopy cover, when the region was under extreme drought. Data analysis was performed using the analysis of variance for repeated measures and the Mann–Whitney-Wilcoxon test. The study showed that cork oak regeneration is influenced by stand density, which promoted the establishment success and survival of natural regeneration in a period of reduced precipitation, despite possible competition for water resources. The mean number of seedlings differed significantly between the two stands. However, there were no significant differences in the mean number of seedlings throughout the field measurements. Additionally, the percentage of dead seedlings was low even after the summer season (9.5% of the total seedlings) in the denser stand. These results indicate that high canopy cover can have a protective effect for extreme climatic events and should be considered in forestry management to promote regeneration of the cork oak forests.

ПРОРОСТАННЯ НАСІННЯ ПШЕНИЦІ ОЗИМОЇ ЗАЛЕЖНО ВІД ПЕРЕДПОСІВНОЇ ОБРОБКИ РЕГУЛЯТОРАМИ РОСТУ

Modern technologies for growing grain crops require the use of environmentally safe measures and methods. The pre-sowing treatment of wheat seeds necessitates the correct choice of drugs with a wide spectrum of influence on the morphological and physiological indicators of seedlings. From 2019 to 2022, the effectiveness of pre-sowing treatment of winter wheat seeds was studied using the growth regulators 1-naphthyl-acetic acid (25 ml/l), succinic acid (0.025 % solution), and the organo-mineral preparation Fulvohumin (1 % solution) both separately and in combination: 1-naphthyl-acetic acid + Fulvohumin, 1-naphthyl-acetic acid + succinic acid, succinic acid + Fulvohumin, and 1-naphthyl-acetic acid + succinic acid + Fulvohumin. The working solution consumption was 10 liters per ton of seeds. Treated winter wheat seeds were germinated for eight days at a temperature of +20°C. Laboratory seed germination, biometric parameters, and dry and wet weight of seedlings were determined and statistically analyzed. It was established that succinic acid significantly increases seed germination by 11 %, but seedlings treated with succinic acid showed slightly smaller seedling length and raw weight than the control. Pre-sowing treatment of winter wheat seeds with Fulvohumin significantly increases laboratory seed germination (up to 95 %), root length, and total seedling length. This treatment resulted in a 34.5 % increase in the dry weight of seedlings compared to the control. The highest content of dry matter was observed after seed treatment with a mixture of 1-naphthyl-acetic acid + Fulvohumin + succinic acid, reaching 17.4 %. The combination treatment with Fulvohumin + succinic acid produced the tallest seedlings (14.12 cm) and the greatest raw weight (131.39 mg). A significant increase in raw and dry mass of 8-day-old seedlings was noted after seed treatment with the mixture of 1-naphthyl-acetic acid + succinic acid. However, pre-sowing treatment of winter wheat seeds with only 1-naphthyl-acetic acid (0.025 % solution) was not effective, as it did not significantly increase germination (only by 1.3 %). Additionally, seedlings treated with 1-naphthyl-acetic acid had the shortest root length (4.99–5.78 cm). Therefore, the use of Fulvohumin enhances the effectiveness of growth regulators such as succinic acid and 1-naphthyl-acetic acid.

Studies on viability and efficacy of various invigoration techniques to improve germination parameters of Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb.

Bergenia ciliata, a small perennial herb with lithotriptic properties, belongs to the family Saxifragaceae. The rhizome, which is also the most significant commercial part of this plant, is typically used for propagation since the seeds are very tiny with poor viability and germination capacity. Seed invigoration is a well-recognized and effective technique to improve seed germination potential, ensure establishment, and enhance yield under varying environments. Thus, the present investigation aimed to study the seed viability as well as the effect of various invigoration techniques on germination parameters and seedling vigor of B. ciliata. Seeds were primed with 14 distinct conventional treatments varied either with concentrations or duration of exposures. Standardized method was followed for seed germination test, and the emerged seedlings were allowed to grow until day 15 when the various seedling parameters were analyzed. Seed soaking in TZ solution followed by bleaching with 4% NaOCl for 20 min recorded 88.5–95.8% viability. Results also indicated that germination and seedling growth parameters were greater under all priming treatments as compared to control. The maximum germination rate (93.75%) was observed under GA3@25 ppm. Total seedling length, dry weight and SVI were found to be higher under pre-sowing seed treatment with GA3@25 ppm in comparison with control or other treatments. Better activation of ‘pre-germinative metabolisms’ in primed seeds might result in improved germination and other indices. Moreover, the PCA and cluster analysis revealed that various pre-sowing treatments particularly GA3 would be recommended for improved seed germination of B. ciliata.

Vigor of hybrid corn seeds is determinant for the establishment of seedlings in the field

The objective of this work was to determine the importance of vigor during the initial establishment of the maize crop. The work was carried out using 8 lots of hybrid corn seed, in which four lots were characterized as high vigor and four lots characterized as low vigor. After obtaining the seeds, they were sown in the field to determine the association between vigor and seedling performance at 21 days after sowing. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with four replications. Seedling emergence was measured daily up to 21 days, and at the end of the period, the shoot length, root system length, total seedling length and their respective masses, root system volume and stem diameter were determined. Seed vigor was positively associated with all measured variables, except for root system length. All parameters evaluated were superior in the group of seeds characterized as having high vigor. It is concluded that the vigor of hybrid corn seeds is crucial for the higher speed and uniformity of emergence in the field, being essential to form seedlings with superior performance in field conditions.

Valorization of treated swine wastewater and generated biomass by microalgae: Their effects and salt tolerance mechanisms on wheat seedling growth

The extensive use of mineral fertilizers has a negative impact on the environment, whereas wastewater and microalgal biomass can provide crops with nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and have the potential to be used as a source of fertilizers in circular agriculture. In this study, a step-by-step resource utilization study of algae-containing wastewater generated from microalgae treatment of swine wastewater was carried out. When wheat seedlings were cultivated in the effluent after microalgae separation, the root fresh weight, seedling fresh weight, and total seedling length were increased by 3.44%, 14.45%, and 13.64%, respectively, compared with that of the algae-containing wastewater, and there was no significant difference in seedling fresh weight, total seedling length, maximum quantum yields of PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm), and performance index (PIABS) from that of the Hogland solution group, which has the potential to be an alternative liquid fertilizer. Under salt stress, microalgae extract increased the contents of GA3, IAA, ABA, and SA in wheat seedlings, antioxidant enzymes maintained high activity, and the PIABS value increased. Low-dose microalgae extract (1 mL/L) increased the root fresh weight, seedling fresh weight, longest seedling length, and total seedling length by 30.73%, 31.28%, 16.43%, and 28.85%, respectively. Algae extract can act as a plant biostimulant to regulate phytohormone levels to attenuate the damage of salt stress and promote growth.

Evaluating thermotolerant sunflower genotypes with temperature induction response (TIR) technique

High temperature affects various physiological processes of the plant. Delayed sowing and changing climate both subject the crop to increasing temperatures during the crop growth period. There is a need to take on a technique to screen the wide number of genotypes for high-temperature tolerance. In the present study, a screening protocol was followed based on the principle of “acquired tolerance” in which 47 sunflower seedlings were exposed to sub-lethal heat stress to induce tolerance before subjecting to subsequent lethal stress and the second set were directly exposed to lethal stress. Significant variation was observed for the traits - survival percentage, total seedling length, and seedling weight. Tolerant inbreds were identified using Z distribution and PCA. Results suggested that TIR is a rapid and powerful technique that can be used to screen large number of germplasms to identify thermotolerant lines.

Chemical treatment and mobilization of reserves of soybean seeds under water deficit

Abstract: Seed treatments with chemical phytosanitary products can compromise mobilization of seed reserves for the seedlings under water deficit conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological quality, the initial seedling development, and the mobilization of reserves in soybean seeds treated with phytosanitary products under water deficit. The trial was set up in a completely randomized design in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement: chemical treatments (control, Thiamethoxam, Fludioxonil + Metalaxyl-M, and Fipronil + Pyraclostrobin + Tiophanate-methyl) × osmotic potentials (0, -0.1, -0.2, and -0.3 MPa). We analyzed the following variables: germination; hypocotyl length, root length, and total seedling length; seedling length vigor index; cotyledon dry matter weight; seedling dry matter yield; seed reserve reduction; relative dry matter yield; seed reserve reduction rate; and conversion efficiency of seed reserves into seedling dry matter. Seed quality and seedling development decline under water deficit conditions. The treatment with Fipronil + Pyraclostrobin + Thiophanate-methyl results in lower phytotoxicity. The estimated cotyledon dry matter (CDM) weight is an indicator of phytotoxicity and water deficit. Mobilization of reserves is compromised in seeds treated with insecticides, reducing the capacity of conversion of reserves into dry matter. There is an inversely proportional relationship between the reduction in conversion and the efficiency of conversion of reserves of treated soybean seeds under water deficit.

Fire responses of flora in a sclerophyll–rainforest vegetation complex in the Nightcap Range, North Coast, New South Wales

Context Species fire responses were investigated in a mixed sclerophyll–rainforest ecosystem in the Nightcap Range, North Coast, New South Wales. Aims To examine rates of seedling recruitment and resprouting in functional and phytogeographic components of wet sclerophyll forest (WSRf), and adjacent open forest (OF) and rock outcrop shrubland (RO). Methods Species resprouting and seedling recruitment traits (fire responses) were recorded in 45 stem plots and 225 seedling subplots in WSRf, OF and RO. Species fire responses were classified, community fire-response spectra compiled and rates of seedling recruitment and resprouting in WSRf examined in relation to primary fire response, growth-form, habitat and broad functional and phytogeographic species groupings. Species size-regenerative class distribution was used to analyse population structure, fire impact, regeneration and recruitment in resprouter species that comprised most of the mesic-Gondwanan element of the WSRf flora. Key results WSRf, OF and RO habitats had distinctively different fire-response spectra. In WSRf, there was a high proportion of mesophyll resprouter species of Gondwanan origin with nil or very low seedling recruitment, a distinct component of mesophyll seeders of Indo-Malayan origin, as well as sclerophyll seeders and resprouters that also comprised most of the OF and RO floras. Resprouters comprised 75% of the WSRf flora, 50% OF and 10% pavement shrubland. Continuous size-class distributions indicated recruitment between fire events in the majority of mesophyll resprouters in WSRf. Lower total seedling density appeared to reflect inherent species traits and less canopy disturbance by fire. Large sclerophyll species forming the unburnt canopy of WSRf had very low seedling recruitment. Conclusions Different habitats (WSRf, OF and RO) and functional and phytogeographic clades in WSRf display distinctive patterns of resprouting and seedling-recruitment fire response. Fire responses of species that maintain species population and community composition are governed by fire regime, habitat variables and inherent species traits. Implications The distinctive fire-response spectrum of WSRf appears to be a direct consequence of the overlap of ‘new’ and ‘old’ floras in this broad vegetation type.

Thermotolerance of sunflower inbreds using temperature induction response technique

A lab experiment was conducted with 47 sunflower inbreds to evaluate the thermal tolerance at seedling stage using TIR technique. The seedlings are subjected to high temperature stress (HT) with three different temperature treatments control, induction treatment (IT) and lethal treatment (LT). Survival percentage, total seedling length, plumule length, radicle length, seedling weight and seedling vigor index were effected both in IT and LT but the effect was more pronounced in lethal. Based on seed vigor index and percent reduction of total seedling length, inbreds were classified into tolerant, moderately tolerant and susceptible.

High regeneration may not contribute to the forest's carbon storage: a case study in the mangrove forest of Rajang-Belawai-Paloh delta, Sarawak.

The alarming rate of the mangrove ecosystem loss poses a threat of losing valuable carbon sinks. This study was conducted to (i) determine the growth structure in different vegetation types and (ii) compare the aboveground biomass (AGB) and carbon storage in different vegetation types. The study was conducted at four vegetation types within the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh delta i.e., Matured Bakau-Berus Forest (MBBF), Bakau-Nipah Forest (BNF), Regenerating Forests (Debris pile) [RF-D], and Regenerating Forests (Machinery track) [RF-M]. Inventory plots (20 m × 20 m) are systematically located along the main waterways and smaller rivers/streams. Trees (≥ 5 cm diameter-at-breast height [DBH]), seedlings (< 2-cm stem diameter), and saplings (2-4.9-cm stem diameter) were measured. The trend of total trees per hectare is found to be decreasing across the least disturbed vegetation (MBBF) to the most disturbed vegetation (RF-M). The trends of total seedlings and saplings per hectare are found to be going upwards from the least disturbed vegetation to the most disturbed vegetation. Kruskal-Wallis H-test showed that there is a significant difference in the AGB and carbon storage between different vegetation types, χ2(2) = 43.98, p = 0.00 with the highest mean rank AGB and carbon storage in BNF (612.20 t/ha) and lowest in RF-M (287.85 t/ha). It can be concluded that although the most disturbed vegetations have higher regeneration, it may not contribute to the forest's carbon storage The naturally regenerated seedlings may not grow beyond the sapling stage unless sustainable forest management is conducted to ensure survivability and growth.

Influence of temperature and variety on seed germination of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr) at different germination times

Seed germination is an important stage in crop development that affects plant performance, crop yield, and quality. Many factors influence seed germination, and one of the most important factors is temperature. The closer the temperature is to the optimum, the faster germination will occur. Temperature affects seed germination in various plants and varies depending on the variety. Therefore, the effect of temperature on seed germination is necessary to investigate, also for soybean varieties. Soybean is one of the world's most valuable oil-seed crops. Generally, proper seedling establishment and germination of soybean seeds are crucial processes in the survival and growth cycle of the crop. Thus, a study was done to investigate the influence of temperature and variety on soybean seed germination at different times after sowing. The experiment was carried out at the Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Crop Production Laboratory. Seeds of two soybean varieties were subjected to three different temperatures: 15, 25, and 35 °C, and two soybean varieties, Martina and Johanna were tested. There were four germination times based on the days after sowing: Days 3, 5, 7, and 9. This experiment was set up with a completely randomized block design and four replications. According to the findings of this study, the Martina variety showed a better germination rate as well as higher vigor and viability than the Johanna variety in the first 12 days after sowing. At temperatures of 15 °C and 25 °C, both varieties achieved comparable percentages of viability, but they were more vigorous at 25 °C due to better total seedling length. Thus, the information gained from this study will indirectly determine and confirm the proper temperature for the initial growth of the Martina and Johanna varieties.

Effects nursery media on Irvingia gabonensis and Dacryodes edulis seedlings and weed dynamics of the media

A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different nursery media on performances of Bush mango (Irvingia gabonensis) and African pear (Dacryodes edulis) seedlings. Five nursery media were formulated from topsoil, poultry manure and river sand in the following ratios; 0:3:3, 1:2:3, 1:3:2, 2:3:1 and 3:2:1. The media formulated were analyzed for the physico-chemical properties and seeds of the test crops were sown in each filled polythene bags with the formulated media. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD). The results obtained show significant (P≤0.05) media effects on days to first and 50% seedling emergence and percentage total emergence in Bush mango but non-significant in African pear. Number of days to last seedling emergence was significantly (P≤0.05) influenced by media in African pear leaf number and plant height for 10 weeks were responsive to differences in media in both crops. Media influenced total dry weight only in Bush mango while dry matter distribution pattern varied significantly in African pear. In both crops, percentage total seedling emergence and seedling vigour were better in medium 1:2:3. Therefore, from the results, the differential influence of media on seedling growth as evidence in the study suggested the need for broader evaluation of media for different tropical tree species to identify the most appropriate medium for each species that will ensure better vigorous seedling production for plantation and/or orchard establishment. Also, the results showed significant variation in weed flora composition, comprised of 35 species made up of 14 families. The families of Asteraceae, Gramineae, Amaranthaceae and Acanthaceae were predominant. Annual weed species and broadleaf were predominant.

Seed Quality Behaviour Variation of Moth Bean during Storage in Different Packaging

An experiment was carried out in order to assess the behavior of the moth bean seed quality in 4 types of packaging including cloth, gunny, HDPE, and vacuum-packed bags for 18 months. After two months of storage, the moisture content of the seeds fluctuated greatly in cloth, gunny, and HDPE bags (conventional packaging) because these materials are pervious, but the moisture content of the seeds did not vary in vacuum packed bags as the polythene bag used for the vacuum package was thicker, had a lower water vapor and oxygen transmission rate. Further, seeds in conventional packaging’s developed bruchid infestations after 4 months of storage but no infestation was found in vacuum-packed bags until 18 months. The bruchid infestation caused the germination rate of the seeds to drop to less than 20%. In comparison to the initial state, even after 18 months of storage, there was little change in the parameters used for measuring seed quality (germination, total seedling length, seedling dry weight, moisture content, and protein content). Therefore, without the use of chemicals, moth bean seeds can be safely stored using vacuum packaging technology.

Responses of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) seedlings from different geographical locations to low temperature stress

Climate change has exacerbated difficulties for both the environment and humans in recent years, with major consequences on the resilience and ecological diversity of forests, including those of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.). Because cold stress is an important challenge to silver fir seedling growth, particularly in the early phases of development, the goal of this study was to find potential genetic resources with appropriate responses to the action of low temperatures. Thus, traits of interest were studied in the early stage of seedlings from seven different Romanian provenances. Soil electrical conductivity, root weight, and total seedling weight were found to be related to seedling growth and biomass elements. The results revealed substantial differences depending on geographical origin. Garda Seaca provenance had the highest seedlings tolerance. Exposure to varying low temperatures revealed minor variations between seedlings from the control and those treated to −20 °C, which might be explained by the current temperatures in Romania’s silver fir producing area. However, exposing to −40 °C all seedlings showed deterioration. Soil electroconductivity reduced as exposure temperature decreased, emphasizing the link between cold stress and soil effects on fir seedling growth. Some Romanian provenances could be useful for future silver fir breeding or afforestation and reforestation operations.

Assessment of seed viability of Oryza sativa L. accessions in long-term storage after more than a decade

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the seed viability of 16 Oryza sativa L. accessions including valuable endangered landraces, a breeder’s line, and an advanced/improved cultivar after 13-14 years of long-term storage. Preservation of seed samples has been conducted ex-situ at low temperatures (-18°C). The germination test (germination energy and total germination) was carried out according to ISTA methods and Kameswara (2006). Furthermore, the following variables were examined: the germination index, root length, shoot length, root-to-shoot length ratio, total seedling length, and seed vigour index. The Pearson correlation coefficient was computed to assess the linear relationship between the vigour index and seedling length. All the sixteen accessions have had a high total germination rate, in the range of 89-100%, hence there is no need for their regeneration. The germination energy and total germination showed statistically significant differences for two rice accessions at P-0.05 and P-0.01. The seed showing a high vigour index produced seedlings with higher growth rates. The Pearson correlation of the vigour index and seedling length was found to be very highly positive and statistically significant (r=0.99, p0.001). Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that rice as a botanical species retains high seed viability during the long-term conservation, although there are individual differences between the accessions which are due to the genetic constitution of each genotype.

The Effects of Organic Fertilization on The Quality of Eggplant Seedlings

This study investigated the effects of chemical fertilizer (20-20-20) and two different organic fertilizers (compost and wood ash) applications on eggplant seedling quality. Peat was used as the growing medium. Some seedling quality parameters such as stem diameter, seedling height, number of leaves, leaf chlorophyll content, leaf area, root length and total seedling dry weight were investigated. In general, although applying chemical fertilizer is the best value in the seedling quality parameters, it was determined that statistically (P

Characterization of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm for Early Seedling Vigour-related Traits under Direct Seeded Condition

In pursuit of boosting rice production while maintaining economic feasibility within resource constraints, the shift from the traditional puddled-transplanted rice system to direct-seeded rice is gaining significance. Early seedling vigour (ESV) is an important character crucial for direct-seeded rice to outcompete and suppress weed growth. This study evaluated hundred rice germplasm accessions for their early seedling vigour-related traits. Mesocotyl and coleoptile lengths, chlorophyll content, alpha-amylase, speed of emergence, shoot and root characteristics, and vigour indices exhibited notable variability as indicated by their high PCV and GCV. Moreover, they were predominantly under the influence of additive gene effects, as illustrated by their high heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean. This suggests that these traits are heritable and could be effectively exploited through selective breeding efforts. Positive correlations were found between seedling vigour and traits like emergence (%), speed of emergence, chlorophyll content, and alpha-amylase activity. Based on PCA, Vigour index-I, II, total seedling length, and chlorophyll contents were regarded as major discriminators in rice germplasm for direct seeded traits. The superior genotypes for seedling vigour such as Honduras and Gharib, could be used as donors in the rice breeding programs to develop direct seeded rice cultivars.