Influence of Magnetic Stimulation on Germination and Initial Growth of Paddy (Oryza sativa)

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of exposure to magnetic fields on the germination of paddy. Germination test was carried out under laboratory condition and nursery conditions. Paddy seeds were exposed to 250 gauss for different times (15 min without magnet and 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 min. with magnet). The germination test was carried out under laboratory and nursery condition. Magnetically treated seed showed significant increase in germination. It was found that exposure of paddy seed to magnetic field strength of 250 guass for a period of 60 and 90 minutes enhanced the germination (93% and 95% respectively) in both the conditions. These treatments can be used practically to accelerate the germination in rice. There were significant effects among treatments for germination percentage, root length, shoot length, speed of germination and seedling vigour of rice.