Germination performance of maize seeds at unfavourable temperatures by potassium salts

Maize seeds (Zea mays L. cv. Partap-1) soaked for 24 h in potassium salt solutions (K₂HPO₄ or KNO₃ each at 0.25%) showed markedly improved germination at the sub-optimal (15° C) and high temperature (45°C). The rate of germination as well as the percentage germination were enhanced. Germinating embryos of treated seeds under unfavourable temperatures showed increased activity of acid invertase and accumulation of soluble proteins and sugars, especially the non-reducing fraction.