Indian Journal of Plant Genetic Resources

The effects of Osmo and hydropriming on partially aged seeds of mustard variety Varuna were studied. Seeds were osmoconditioned in PEG solution of strength 0.75 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.