Vol. 12, Special Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
M Hemalatha, Hilli JS, Chandrashekhar SS, Vijayakumar AG, Uday G Reddy and PS Tippannavar

Abstract:
Seed priming is a pre sowing technique aimed at enhancing germination per cent, root and shoot length by controlled seed hydration. In this investigation, the potential impact of silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles on seed quality improvement in greengram (Vigna radiata LR Wilczek) was explored. Greengram seeds were subjected to priming treatments utilizing various concentrations of Ag and Cu nanoparticles (50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 ppm) for distinct priming durations ranging from 1 to 3 hours. A control group of untreated seeds was incorporated for comparative analysis. Evaluation of primed seeds encompassed multiple seed quality parameters, such as germination (%), root length, shoot length and SVI (Seedling Vigour Index). The optimization of nanoparticle concentration emerged as a pivotal factor in establishing the most effective priming treatments for subsequent investigations. Equally significant was the standardization of soaking duration to determine the optimal time for promoting accelerated and uniform germination. Irrespective of priming durations and concentrations, all Nano primed seeds demonstrated higher germination per cent, root and shoot length and seedling vigor index in comparison to the control group. Particularly, seeds primed with 50 ppm copper nanoparticles, exhibited significantly higher germination percentage (99.33%), extended root length (26.09 cm), increased shoot length (16.91 cm) and elevated SVI (4271). This performance was on par with seeds primed using 150 ppm Ag nanoparticles. Among the different priming durations, 1 hour proved optimal for copper nanoparticles, displaying significant superiority over priming durations of 2 and 3 hours. Similarly, a priming duration of 3 hours exhibited optimal outcomes for silver nanoparticles, revealing substantial differentiation from other priming durations.