Investigating the effects of heat shock, osmotic stress and drying methods on the viability of safflower primed seeds during deterioration period

Articles in Press

Document Type : scientific research article

Authors

1 Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

2 Gorgan University Agricultural Science and Natural Resrorces

3 Associate Professor of Biology at Golestan University.

Abstract

Background and purpose: In recent decades, seed priming has become a popular technique for enhancing germination rate and uniformity in the field, as well as promoting better seedling establishment and faster adaptation to adverse environmental conditions during germination and seedling growth. However, the practical application of this method has been limited due to the decline in seed quality and longevity associated with priming. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of post-priming treatments, such as heat shock, osmotic stress, and drying methods, on the longevity of safflower seeds under various deterioration periods.

Materials and methods: In this study, the seeds of the Sina cultivar were used. First, the seeds were immersed in water and salicylic acid solution. After the completion of the imbibed phase, they were subjected to heat shock treatments (1.5, 3 and 8 hours at 45 °C), osmotic stress (-1.5 and -2.5 MPa applied by polyethylene glycol), and two slow and fast drying methods. The treatment without priming was also considered as a control. Finally, the seeds were subjected to controlled deterioration for 0, 2, 4, and 6 days at 45 °C.

Results: The results indicated that as the duration of deterioration increased, the germination ability and seedling growth decreased. In the treatment where deterioration lasted for 6 days, the seeds died completely. The decline in quality of primed seeds was more severe under the conditions of heat shock and osmotic stress after priming, compared to the control seeds. However, heat shock (8 hours) resulted in improved quality of the primed seeds compared to shorter heat shock durations. The primed seeds with salicylic acid and water (hydro) showed f 13% and 10% increase compared to the control treatment, respectively. Applying drying treatments after priming, without the use of heat shock and osmotic stress treatments, resulted in maintaining and even increasing the germination and seedling growth of primed seeds compared to unprimed seeds at various levels of deterioration. Both drying methods improved the germination and seedling growth of primed seeds, resulting in greater germination and seedling growth compared to non-primed seeds.

Conclusion: In general, it is advisable to employ an appropriate method to dry primed safflower seeds in order to maintain or enhance their longevity during the priming process and after the completion of the soaking period.

Conclusion: In general, it is advisable to employ an appropriate method to dry primed safflower seeds in order to maintain or enhance their longevity during the priming process and after the completion of the soaking period.

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Journal of Plant Production Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 17 March 2025

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