Effect of Soil Compaction on Water Absorption and Seed Water Diffusivity of Germinating Seeds of Different Cultivars of Groundnut

A laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the water absorption and diffusivity characteristics of germinating seeds of 6 cultivars of groundnut at different soil compaction levels (no compaction-Cl, low compaction-C2 and medium compaction-C3) in loamy sand (Alfisol) of Anand and clay loam (Inceptisol) of Khap at soil. The rate of water absorption was measured at an interval of 4 h after placement of seed in soil. The water uptake at a given time and total water absorption by seeds of all cultivars increased with an increase in compaction levels. Total amount of water absorbed at the time of germination by seeds of same cultivars at different compaction levels varied considerably. The diffusivity of the seeds of most of the cultivars increased with increase in compaction levels. The average diffusivity value depends on the variety.