Pattern of ascorbic acid metabolism during the germination phase of plantago (Plantago ovata Forsk) in relation to thermal pretreatment and the exogenous application of ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide

Normal as well as thermal treated seeds of plantago were germinated in distilled water and AA+H₂O₂ at 25 ±1°C up to 96 hours. The pattern of ascorbic acid (AA), ascorbigen (ASG), enzymic utilization of AA (AAU), AA-MM complex; enzymic activities of peroxidase, AA-FR peroxidase, catalase and the growth and development of germinating seeds are discussed in detail in relation to thermal pretreatment and the exogenous application of AA+H₂O₂. The present study points out the positive role of AA through its free radical (MDHA) in the energy transfer mechanism which leads to better growth of a seedling during germination phase.