MIDSTORAGE TREATMENTS FOR IMPROVING VIABILITY OF MUSTARD SEEDS

Abstract

The effects of Osmo and hydr6priming on partially aged seeds of mustard variety
Varuna were studied. Seeds were osmoconditioned in PEG solution of strength0.75
MPa and hydroprimed by (a) immersing in water for 3 hours; (b) allowing
slow absorption of water from moist muslin for 36 hours (c) equilibrating the
seeds in water saturated atmosphere for 48 hrs at 25°C. The treated seeds
were then equilibrated at 20°C and 45% RH for 48 hours to 6% moisture and
packed in aluminium foil packets.. Primed seeds were assessed immediately as
well as after 10 months of storage at ambient conditions for their germination,
mean germination time, leachate parameters, protein content and activities of
amylase, acid phosphatase, peroxidase and catalase. Osmoconditioning and slow
hydration treatments resulted in significant improvement in .germination and vigour
parameters in contrast to direct soaking of seeds in water. These observations
are supported by less leakiness of electrolytes and UV absorbing material and
increased activity of free radical scavenging and reserve mobilizing enzymes.