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Relevance. In the context of climate change, onion cultivation has become a challenge and innovative solutions are needed to support breeders and seed producers as well as farmers, starting with critical issues of seed quality. Seed priming successfully improves seed viability, which leads to rapid and uniform germination and emergence of onion seedlings.Results. Priming onion seeds can improve viability, especially under unfavorable conditions such as low/high temperatures, reduced water availability and salinity. It is a simple, low-cost and low-risk intervention that can be a useful technology for farmers and have a positive impact on their livelihoods by increasing the rate of seed germination, increasing the rate of plant development, reducing harvest time and increasing yields. Although this method is common for radish, tomato, carrot and cabbage seeds, this method is less popular for onions. This review provides an up-to-date picture of the scientific and technological advances that have contributed to increasing seed germination and vigor in onion plants to date. For large-scale commercial use, optimal priming methods and conditions tailored to different varieties or seed lots will require further extensive experimental work. It cannot be denied that seed priming technology is characterized by ease of operation, low cost and high practical value in industrial and market contexts. It can be foreseen that this technology will have wider prospects in agricultural production and green building. In addition, seed priming can effectively restore or enhance seed viability and ensure successful retention of germplasm resources and subsequent development, especially for onion seeds that rapidly lose viability.

One of promising areas of wheat breeding is the creation of varieties with a high concentration of anthocyanins in the grain for the production of functional food products. Nonetheless, the question of how these compounds affect seed viability after long-term storage has remained unexplored. A comparative study on seed viability was conducted using a set of near-isogenic lines on the background of spring wheat variety Saratovskaya 29. These sister lines carry different combinations of recombinant DNA regions (on chromosomes 2A and 7D) containing dominant and recessive alleles at loci Pp3 and Pp-D1 (Pp: Purple pericarp), which determine the anthocyanin color of coleoptiles and of the pericarp. Seeds were germinated on two layers of water-moistened filter paper in a climatic chamber at a constant temperature of 20 °C on a 12-hour daylight cycle. During long-term natural storage of the seeds for up to 9 years in a dry ventilated room in Kraft bags at 20 ± 2 °C, the tested wheat samples experienced a loss of seed germination capacity of ~50 %; anthocyanins were found to not participate in the preservation of germination capacity. Nonetheless, anthocyanins contributed to the preservation of seed viability under unfavorable short-term conditions of a temperature rise to 48 °C at 100 % humidity. The accelerated aging test did not predict poor germination capacity after long-term seed storage. The results showed a neutral role of anthocyanins in the maintenance of seed germination capacity for 6–9 years under natural storage conditions at 20 ± 2 °C. A small statistically significant increase in grain germination capacity during natural aging was associated with the presence of a recombinant region containing the Pp-D1 gene on wheat chromosome 7D.

Background. Sapropel, bottom sediment contains biomass. Sapropels are divided into organic (50-90%), carbonate (CaO 30-60%), siliceous (SiO2 25-45%). Sapropel of the Syrdarya region is of interest for agrochemistry. Purpose. To determine the composition of sapropel, agrochemical assessment by indicators of germination energy and germination of cotton seeds. Methodology. Moisture in sapropel was determined according to GOST 26712-85 and GOST R 54000-2010, organic matter - GOST 27980-80 and GOST 54000-2010. Humic acids and ash content of the sample were determined according to GOST 11306-83. XRD-6100 diffractometer (Shimadzu) was used. Originality. Sapropel SIU "Gayrat fayzli dalasi" is classified as a siliceous type. Sapropel extract, 0.1-0.01%, increased the germination and germination energy of cotton to 96.7%, with control 90.0%. Findings. The optimal concentration of sapropel solution for soaking cotton seeds was found: 0.01%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance and methodology. The task of controlling the growth and development of sugar beet plants with the help of lighting devices is of interest from the point of view of identifying biological features of the culture and in breeding practice. The purpose of the research is to determine the response of plants to the effects of low–energy monochrome radiation at the initial stage of ontogenesis (germination of seeds (coplodia) sugar beet). In this regard, the seeds of the hybrid Smena were germinated in the dark (control) and under different variants of continuous illumination with wavelengths of 380 nm, 440 nm, 525 nm, 660 nm and 730 nm.Results. The reaction of sugar beet seeds and sprouts to illumination with monochromatic light depends on the wavelength Germination of seeds when irradiated with monochromatic far-red light leads to a decrease in germination energy by 23%, seed germination by 39%, the height of sprouts and aboveground biomass by 21.8% compared with the control (dark germination). Similar indicators were observed for the negative effect of red light. Exposure to UV-A light (380 nm) led to an increase in germination energy by 4%, but germination, on the contrary, decreased by 12%. The terrestrial biomass of sprouts also decreased (by 9.9%). Irradiation with green and blue light had a positive effect on growth: the terrestrial biomass of sprouts increased by 19.8% with a green spectrum and 7.3% blue. At the same time, there was no decrease in germination energy and germination compared to the control. The germination energy under the influence of blue light even increased by 12%. With dark germination, elongated etiolated plants were formed on the 10th day, whereas in the variants of green, blue and UV-A irradiation, harmoniously developed dark green shoots were formed.

The paper notes the potential for enhancing seed productivity through exposure to an electromagnetic field. It touches upon both theoretical and practical considerations for developing an experimental laboratory plant for pre-sowing seed treatment using a low-frequency electromagnetic field and aiming to achieve a magnetobiological effect. (Research purpose) The study aims to investigate the influence of low-frequency electromagnetic field on the composition and properties of grain seeds. (Materials and methods) Standard emitters, characterized by a magnetic induction variability of 3-75 millitesla and a radiation frequency of 1-100 Hertz, were employed to ensure the necessary treatment parameters for a batch of seeds. (Results and discussion) The study investigates the impact of magnetization on the germination process, germination energy, and the physical and chemical properties of seeds subjected to different parameters of a low-frequency electromagnetic field (ranging from 3 to 75 millitesla in magnetic induction and a radiation frequency of 10-16 Hertz).The quality of the effect was analyzed with respect to the installation parameters and seed mass, ranging from 10 to 500 grams, across various cereal crops. Subsequently, specific modes were identified, and a functional irradiation program was devised to ensure a highly effective impact on seeds, optimizing their germination, sprouting and development. (Conclusions) The impact of a low-frequency electromagnetic field on the composition and properties of grain has been studied. An experimental laboratory plant with sources of a low-frequency electromagnetic field has been developed and irradiation modes have been justified. The pre-sowing treatment of an industrial batch, the magnetobiological effect is contingent upon several factors, including the crop type and variety, activation of a biological complex in a cell that initiates the development of a seedling, seed quality and moisture content, the presence of microorganisms on the surface, pathogenic ones included, and the characteristics of irradiation sources and energy parameters. The parameters of the low-frequency electromagnetic field were determined as follows: magnetic induction ranging from 3 to 75 millitesla, a frequency 10-16 Hertz, and seed weight varying from 10 to 500 grams. These identified parameters will be applied in the development of an industrial unit designed for the preparation of seed material and enhancement of its sowing properties.

The Screening of osmotic stress was undertaken to investigate the effect of water stress and salinity stress on the seeds of mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) and its responses to drought tolerance at seedling stage. Water stress was simulated by non-ionic water-soluble polymer polyethylene glycol of molecular weight 6000 and salinity stress was induced with NaCl. The experiment demonstrated that osmotic stress caused by NaCl and PEG has a negative impact on the germination rate and seedling growth of Vigna radiata. Both NaCl and PEG inhibited germination and seedling growth in mung bean, but the effects of NaCl compared to PEG was less on germination and seedling growth.

An investigation was carried out to study the phytotoxic effect of chromium (VI) on seed germination, plant growth parameters and biosynthesis of pigments in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). Four concentrations (1, 2, 4 and 8 µg ml-1) of Cr (VI) as potassium dichromate were applied to cluster bean seeds in solution culture. The rate of seed germination was observed every hour. Growth parameters were measured at the early seedling stage. The concentrations of chlorophyll, carotenoid and anthocyanin in leaves were estimated. All the studied concentrations of Cr (VI) were found to be toxic to cluster bean. The speed of seed germination slowed down under Cr (VI) stress. The root-shoot length, root-shoot fresh weight and root-shoot dry weight decreased with increasing concentrations of Cr (VI). The most deleterious effect was observed at 8 µg ml-1. Anthocyanin contents in cluster bean showed a significant (P < 0.05) correlation with applied Cr (VI) concentrations. Out of the various concentrations of Cr (VI) studied, 1 µg ml-1 and 2 µg ml-1 were moderately toxic while 4 µg ml-1 and 8 µg ml-1 were highly toxic to cluster bean.

Background. One of the ways to increase flax production is to expand cropping areas, including nontraditional ones. To solve this problem, it is necessary to carefully select cultivars that can produce stable high yields and have competitive raw material quality. The aim of this study was to identify the adaptability potential of flax accessions and select sources of valuable properties for their use under the conditions of the Northern Trans-Urals.Materials and methods. Sixty flax accessions were studied in the fields of the south of Tyumen Province in 2017–2020. Phenotypic screening was performed according to the published lists of descriptors, taking into account outdoor seed germination, plant height, seed yield, flax straw, retted stalks, and fiber. Statistical data processing included the multivariate analysis of variance and correlation analysis. Environmental screening was performed according to S. A. Eberhart, W. A. Russell.Results and conclusion. Based on the long-term data, sources of traits were identified: 4 for outdoor seed germination, 4 for plant height, 11 for the duration of the growing season, 21 for straw yield, 19 for the yield of retted stalks, 9 for seed yield, 6 for total fiber yield, and 5 for 1000 seed weight. The manifestation of traits was shown to be largely induced by the impact of the environment factor and the complex genotype × environment interaction. On the basis of screening results, 12 accessions were selected. The correlation analysis helped to find out that on average over the years of research there were high and stable direct relationships of the yield of straw (r = 0.73–1.00) and retted stalks (r = 0.68–1.00) with plant height. Under relatively favorable conditions for plant growth and development during the growing seasons of 2017 and 2020, the influence of outdoor seed germination on plant height (r = 0.62–1.00), straw yield (r = 0.78–1.00), and seed yield (r = 0.52–0.91) increased.

Present study aims to evaluate the impacts of salinity and water stress factors on seed germination and early seedling growth under ex-vitro conditions in an oil crop, black sesame (Sesamum indicum L., cv. TMV3). During salinity stress, various concentrations of NaCl-solutions (10mM, 25mM, 50mM, 100mM, and 250mM) were employed while during water stress treatments, mannitol and sorbitol solutions in equal concentrations (10mM, 25mM, 50mM, 100mM, 250mM, and 500mM) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution (5%, 10%, 15%, 25%, and 50%) were considered. Furthermore, after 3-days and 7-days of stress treatments, observations were recorded as partial and full germination respectively. Results indicate that with 100mM of NaCl solution, sesame seed was found to germinate without root development (80±0.0%) after 7-days of treatments in comparison to control experiment (100±1.0%) and further high concentration (250mM) of NaCl solution was proved to be completely toxic for sesame seed germination. Additionally, seedling growth was also affected with NaCl concentrations and seedling’s height was recorded as minimum with root and shoot lengths (0.5±0.21cm/2.1±0.78cm) in seeds growing with NaCl solution (50mM) while further high concentration (100mM) was proved to be strongly inhibitory for root development in germinated seeds. During water stress treatments, results indicated that mannitol (100mM) turns out to be relatively strong inhibitor for seed germination (50±0.5%) than sorbitol (60±1.0%) with (250mM) solution. However, both mannitol and sorbitol solutions (500mM) were proved to be fully toxic for seed germination. Furthermore, during PEG treatments, PEG solution (25%) was found to be significantly inhibitory and germination frequency (40±0.0%) was recorded while further increase in PEG concentration (50%) was proved to be lethal. Moreover, during early seedling growth, mannitol (100mM) was turned out to be strongly inhibitory for root development and root-shoot length ratio was recorded as (0.0cm/0.25±0.41cm) while sorbitol (100mM) was proved to be slightly weak inhibitor (0.71±0.27cm/0.93±0.32cm). Significantly high concentration of mannitol (250mM) was turned out to be toxic for seedling growth while even very high concentration of sorbitol (500mM) was failed to suppress seedling growth completely. During PEG treatments, the minimum seedling height (0.79±0.31cm/1.43±0.32cm) was recorded with PEG (15%) solution while PEG (25%) solution was found to suppress root formation completely. Furthermore, during endogenous proline content estimation in tissues growing with NaCl salt solutions, results indicated that proline content gradually increases with the increase in NaCl concentrations and was found to be maximum (128.3x10-3g-1) in tissues growing with very high concentration of NaCl (100mM) solution than the tissues growing with very low concentration (10mM) of NaCl salt solution (10.94x10-3g-1).

Allopathic effects are seen as positive and negative effects under the influence of its allochemical is caused by the chemical interaction of one plant with another. Aqueous extract of Chloris barbata leaf has an allopathic impact on seed germination in cowpea (Vigna unguculata L.) and Indian bean (Lablab purpureus L.). Seed germination tests were carried out in different concentrations (20%, 40%, 60%, 100%) of leaf aqueous extracts of Chloris barbata, result showed that there was no significant germination in cowpea in control and treatments. However, it was observed that Chloris barbata triggered the germination at 100% aqueous extract which was followed by 60%. Due to allelopathic effects in Indian bean germination ang growth were promoted in high concentration extract.

The first stage of modernizing cultivation of the main grain crops lies in the exogenous use of natural growth regulators and nanofertilisers for pre-sowing seed treatment. Special attention is paid to the quality of winter wheat seed material, given the high probability of seed germination in stressful climatic conditions and the need to form winter-hardy crops. Therewith, this study is relevant because modern requirements for agronomic biofortification of plant products make provision for the introduction of environmentally safe, effective, and cost-effective measures in the cultivation of agricultural crops. The use of preparations based on fulvic acids and growth regulators is an effective way to regulate the morphogenesis and productivity of winter wheat. The purpose of this paper was to investigate the effect of pre-sowing treatment of winter wheat seeds with such preparations as Fulvohumin (chelated fertiliser), 1-naphthyl-acetic acid (auxin) and succinic acid (biogenic growth stimulator, adaptogen) on germination and biometric parameters of seedlings. The study involved the use of laboratory and statistical methods. It was found that pre-sowing soaking in 1% Fulvohumin solution increased the energy of seed germination, seedlings contained a large proportion of dry matter, compared to seed treatment with 0.025% succinic acid solution or 1-naphthyl-acetic acid. In terms of germination energy and raw root mass of 7-day shoots, a combination of Fulvohumin and 1-naphthyl-acetic acid was effective. The largest total length and crude weight of 7-day seedlings were after joint seed treatment with Fulvohumin and succinic acid. According to the totality of seedling formation data, complex pre-sowing treatment of winter wheat seeds with Fulvohumin is recommended together with succinic acid and 1-naphthyl-acetic acid. Treatment exclusively with 1-naphthyl-acetic acid was ineffective. These studies are promising for programming field seed germination and mathematical modelling of winter crop growth at the initial stages of ontogenesis in the field

Aim. Study of the growth dynamics of Dianthus awaricus plants in field experimental conditions and of laboratory germination of seeds obtained in the introduction experiment.Material and Methods. Samples of D. awaricus seeds collected in natural populations along the altitudinal ecocline from 820 to 1,720 m above sea level served as the material for the study. To study the field germination and growth dynamics of the plants, D. awaricus seeds were sown at two experimental bases of the Mountain Botanical Garden (at 1,100 and 1,750 m above sea level). Evaluation of laboratory germination was carried out using seeds collected at the Tsudakhar base.Results. Comparative characteristics of the average values of the shoot length and the number of lateral branches of the studied samples showed that the differences between the populations are significant. The monthly increase in D. awaricus plants of different accessions also differs. Monthly variability of the shoot length of D. awaricus in the tested accessions is at a high level, the expressivity of which, apparently, is significantly affected by a complex of environmental factors. A study of the germination of D. awaricus seeds showed that it is higher under laboratory conditions than under experimental field conditions. The highest percentage of seed germination was observed in the “Gunib” sample: 64.0% in the laboratory and 28.6% in the field at the Tsudakhar base.Conclusions. Differences were noted in growth dynamics in the studied samples of D. awaricus studied, apparently due to a complex of abiotic and biotic environmental factors. For the “Tsudakhar” samples the experimental conditions and place of collection of seed material were identical but for the other two samples they were different from their natural habitat. The low field germination of D. awaricus seeds is probably due to the negative impact of winter drought and adverse weather conditions in the spring.

This study reports the common problems of weed species that adversely affect the crop productivity of the agriculture crops at a large scale. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of dried application of Chenopodium murale and Coronopus didymus on seed germination and early growth of Hordeum vulgare. The experiment was performed in a randomised block design with three replications under the greenhouse condition in pot culture. Shoots and roots materials were separately dried in shade for 15–20 days, dry powdered shoot and root residues of C. murale and C. didymus were applied at 5 and 10g kg-1 doses to barley seeds in 6” pots with control for three weeks. C. didymus (10g) shoot residues were most inhibitive against germination (31.16%), GVI (0.85), SVI (4.90) and leaf area (3.94 cm2) of barley while 5 g root residues of the weed had least pronounced effect. Root length, shoot length, and dry biomass were most inhibited by C. murale 10 g in both shoot and root residue treatments. Shoot residues were more inhibitive of germination and growth than root residues of both weeds. Chlorophyll accumulation patterns showed mixed results with some treatments even stimulating their concentrations. Root treatments were in general more inhibitive than shoot treatments. All treated seedlings exhibited higher levels of proline accumulation compared to control. At lower dose, C. murale treatments were more inhibitive than C. didymus treatments. There is a great scope of research on these species to isolate and identify the active factors and also to understand their implication in the biocontrol of weeds apart from their potential negative effects on agricultural crops, especially cereal crops, which can be useful to increasing crop production in northern India, namely in Uttar Pradesh

The article reflects the issues of the current state of scientific research in the FSBSI FSVC, directions and prospects for the development of selection and seed production of vegetable crops are shown. Varieties have been created that realize the bioclimatic potential of the cultivation zone, meet market requirements, and are capable of producing high yields under the influence of biotic and abiotic stressors. Selection is carried out in a combination of classical methods with innovative technologies.Biotechnologists have improved the basic protocol for in vitro microspore culture for the Brassicaceae, stages of technology for obtaining doubled haploids in microspore culture in vitro for the Apiaceae are being developed. For the first time, an effective protocol for obtaining double haploids of European radish has been developed. Doubled haploids of vegetable crops of the Cucurbitaceae, Amarantháceae, Amaryllidáceae were obtained in vitro in the culture of unpollinated ovules. The Center conducts research on the increased content of biologically active substances and antioxidants. An important place is occupied by immunological studies on the resistance of vegetable crops to harmful diseases. The institution develops systems of protective measures against pests, diseases and weeds for vegetable crops based on the use of new environmentally friendly preparations. On the basis of fundamental and priority applied research of previous years, the creation of 21 varieties and hybrids of cabbage, table beet, tomato, sweet pepper, onion, chives, leek, cucumber, melon, lettuce, chervil, potato, aster, lychnis has been completed. Along with the creation of new breeding achievements, technologies for their cultivation are being improved through the use of new agricultural practices, microfertilizers, biological products and humates on vegetable crops in various soil and climatic zones of Russia. New agricultural methods are being developed in the cultivation of mushrooms. In the field of seed production, methods are being developed to increase the germination of seeds, seed production, elements of the technology for the production of mother liquors and seeds of various vegetable and melon crops; zonal seed production technologies that increase their yield. In 2021, a team of scientists received an award from the Government of the Russian Federation for scientific work "Development and implementation of innovative technologies for growing vegetables and potatoes to provide the population with environmentally friendly food".

The article analyses the features of growth and development of seedlings of Scots pine and European spruce on substrates in which various materials were used to neutralise them, affecting the reaction of the environment. According to the research results, the highest germination of seeds of both woody species was established on substrates with a ratio of dolomite flour of 30% and chalk of 70%, while in the case of using pure chalk, seed germination was significantly lower. Scots pine seeds germination in the substrate ranged from 77.6% to 90.1%, and European spruce seeds – from 66.4% to 94.3%. During the cultivation of seedlings of Scots pine and European spruce container seedlings, differences in the content of mobile forms of phosphorus are noted in all variants of the experiment. However, no definite pattern was found depending on the share of participation of various types of lime material. In the substrate of seedlings of Scots pine at the end of the growing season, the content of nitrate nitrogen naturally increases from 1069.1 to 1323.6 mg/100 g of absolutely dry substrate with a decrease in the proportion of dolomite and an increase in the proportion of chalk in the lime neutralising material. Another pattern is manifested when growing seedlings of European spruce container seedlings: the lowest content of nitrate nitrogen (412.1 mg/100 g of absolutely dry substrate) is established in the case of mixing dolomite flour and chalk in equal proportions (option 3). Differences in the content of mobile forms of iron were revealed in all experimental versions of the substrate of both woody species. For the cultivation of Scots pine, its amount ranges from 16.67 to 28.81 mg/100 g of absolutely dry substrate, and European spruce – from 18.40 to 20.99 mg/100 g of absolutely dry substrate. In general, low content of mobile iron was observed in the substrate of growing pine and spruce seedlings in containers. In all experimental variants, the height of seedlings of Scots pine container seedlings exceeds the required average height of the aboveground part in accordance with national standard by 1.3-2.0 times, and for seedlings of European spruce the excess was 1.2-1.5 times. In seedlings of Scots pine and European spruce, according to the variants of the experiment, the average height of the aboveground part rises with an increase in the concentration of dolomite in the mixture of neutralising material from 50% and higher

Rheum emodi is a rare medicinal herb in the Himalayan region due to its medicinal cum aromatic properties it is highly over-exploited from nature. Complete Randomized Design was executed and study aimed to understand the effect of different concentration of Lead and Cadmium in growth and biochemical parameters of Rheum emodi (Wall. Ex Meissn) as comparison to control. In plants, heavy metals Quantity were analyzed to show their effects on the animal and human beings who consume them as such or their derived products. In this study, encouraging results were obtained which favoured maximum (53.33%; p

Cereals in general and millets in particular have been identified as major food crops globally and increase in crop production is required to meet the demands of the ever increasing global population. However, continuous climatic variations or abiotic stresses have led the drastic reduction in food grain yields. In view of affects of abiotic stresses on food crops plants, present study was undertaken to analyze the comparative responses of salinity stresses induced by various concentrations of NaCl (50mM, 100mM, 250mM and 500mM) and sea water (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) during seed germination and seedling growth under ex-vitro conditions in kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.). After 6-days and 12-days of salinity stress treatments, observations were recorded and after 12-days of treatments, results reveal that salinity stress caused by NaCl-salt concentration (250mM) proves to be very lethal causing strong seed germination and therefore, the mean germination frequency (33% ±0.530 was recorded while further increase in NaCl concentration (500mM) was found to be fully toxic and seed germination frequency was obtained as zero in comparison to control experiment (94% ±0.35). Similarly, in case of salinity stress induced by sea water treatments, 25% of the sea water concentration was found to cause strong promotion instead of inhibition and (71% ±0.17) of the seeds could exhibit promotion in germination frequency and further increase in sea water concentration (50%) and above was turned out to be fully toxic. Furthermore, during biochemical studies, protein contents in the tissues growing under NaCl-salinity stresses at (50mM, 100mM and 250mM) were estimated and significantly it was found to decline with the increase in concentration of NaCl-salt stress solutions. After 12th days of treatments, protein contents were found to be minimum (198.2 mg/g) in the tissues that were growing in high concentration of NaCl (250mM) solution than the control solution (476.4mg/g) grown tissues.

The purpose of the research was the adaptation of foreign technologies for intensive and accelerated cultivation of Scots pine planting material in Kazakhstan. Objects of research were annual seedlings of scots pine in forest nurseries of Pavlodar, Akmola, and North Kazakhstan regions. The experiments were established in 4 directions: application of dry growth regulators to soil, pre-sowing seed treatment with growth regulators, soaking seeds in stimulants and fungicide, pre-sowing watering of the soil with growth regulators. It was established that seed quality decreased significantly compared to the last year, only seeds from Pavlodar region had high indicators. Seeds from the nursery ‘Ertic Ormany’ had the highest average indicators of soil germination (58.7…67.8%). In ‘Bukhpa’, the highest germination was observed in seeds soaked with Zircon + Trichocin (3 + 2 hours). Baikal growth regulator and AridGrow slightly increased germination in the nursery of Arykbalyk branch of ‘Kokshetau’. In the forest nursery ‘Ertis Ormany’, the highest annual seedlings were obtained in variants with presowing treatment of scots pine seeds with stimulants and watering the soil with growth substances. The average height of experimental seedlings was 4.32 and 4.64 cm, respectively. The combined use of Zircon and Trichocin increased seedling growth in ‘Bukpa’ nursery to 1.42 cm, which was the highest value. It was revealed that the technologies used in neighboring countries for intensive cultivation of scots pine seedlings showed a positive effect only when using Citovit. According to other experiments, it was determined that seedlings of scots pine grown from seeds with pre-sowing treatment in Gumat+7 for 12 hours had the best growth indicators in height. Increased soil fertility through applying nitrogen, phosphorus fertilizers, soil activator AridGrow and KZ Cultury significantly accelerated growth of scots pine seedlings.

Background. In the present-day situation, the problems pertaining to the nutritional quality of food and feed are quite pertinent for fodder production and cereal farming. The prospect to exploit hulless barley is regarded as a promising trend of agricultural research, because its grain contains chemical compounds of higher value than those in hulled barley. However, among the limiting factors of hulless barley cultivation, low yield should be mentioned, along with poor lodging resistance and susceptibility to fungal diseases. Therefore, the task of searching for and comprehensive studying of source material for hulless barley breeding is essential as the first step towards the development of high-yielding and adaptable cultivars.Materials and methods. Twenty hulless barley accessions, representing 15 botanical varieties, served as the target material for the study. Their genotypes were evaluated in the northern forest steppe environments of Tyumen Province (2015– 2017) according to the guidelines developed by the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR) and field trial methods by B. A. Dospekhov. Correlation analysis was used for statistical processing of experimental data.Results and conclusion. The degree of interactions between the studied characters was measured, and their effect size in the formation of the yield was shown for hulless barley accessions. An inverse correlation of medium strength (r = –0.37) was observed between plant height and lodging resistance, and a direct relationship between plant height and yield was recorded (r = 0.37). The yield was most closely associated with grain weight per plant (r = 0.61) and 1000 grain weight (r = 0.54). The research results showed that C.I.10975 (k-30624, Ethiopia), Liguleless (k-29894, Tajikistan), Schwarze Nackte Kraftborn (k-25788, Germany) and ‘De printempe’ (k-23491, France) had relatively high yield combined with a number of other useful traits.

Legumes play very important role in agriculture as they form associations with bacteria that, fix nitrogen from the air. French bean is used in all over of the world as an edible vegetable crop. Seed ageing is the main problem of seed storage. Changes of bio-chemical and reduction of seedling growth are consequence of seed deterioration. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of accelerated ageing on French bean seed germination and vigour indexes and hormone activity. Seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris L. were treated by accelerating treatments for 4, 6 and 8 days and the influence of ageing, GA3 (20, 30 & 40 ppm) and IBA (5, 10 & 20 ppm) under different concentrations in 8 days aged seeds of French bean were observed. Various parameters were taken for consideration such as germination percentage, along with the mean daily germination, speed of germination, dry weight of seedling and vigour index-I & II. Seeds of P. vulgaris showed 96.66% germination without any treatment (control condition) but during the exposure of specific temperature (42°C) with 100% relative humidity, seeds showed 30% reduction in germination just after 8 days of ageing treatments. While the treatment for 4 and 6 days did not show any remarkable changes in percent germination. So the seeds treated for ageing for 8 days were taken to enhance the germination by treatment of different hormones i.e. GA3 and IBA with different concentrations. Aged seeds treated with GA3 20 ppm showed high germination (82.99%) in comparison to GA3 40 ppm (66.32%).

Purpose. To determine the drought resistance of five millet varieties (ʻOmriyaneʼ, ʻKharkivske 57ʼ, ʻKonstantinovskeʼ, ʻIR 5ʼ, ʻSlobozhanskeʼ) using PEG 6000 as osmotic stress. Methods. To obtain the effect of drought, five concentrations of PEG 6000 solutions were used: 0.0% (control), 11.5%, 15.3%, 19.6%, 23.5% and 28.9%, which corresponds to 0.0, 115, 153, 196, 235 and 289 g of solute in 1000 ml of distilled water or 0.0, -1.9, - 3.1, - 4.8, - 6.6 and - 9.7 bar. Results. Osmotic stress strongly suppressed the germination of millet seeds at -3.1 bars (46.8%) and at -4.8 bars (28.66%) on the third day, but on the sixth day the number of germinated seeds increased to 92.8% and 84.0% respectively. The millet genotypes of differed significantly in the percentage of germination at various concentrations of the PEG 6000 osmotic solution. The minimum germination capacity was observed in variety Omriyane at -3.1, - 4.8, - 6.6 bars. ʻIR 5ʼ, ʻKonstantinovskeʼ and ʻKharkivske 57ʼ showed higher germination potential at the different concentrations of water stress. A decrease in root elongation in all genotypes compared to control was observed in -1.9 bars osmotic stress and then at -3.1 and -4.8 bars of osmotic stress the root length had the same value from 6.6 mm to 13.5 mm on the 3d day and from 25.3 mm to 34.7 mm on the 6th day. Variety ʻSlobozhanskeʼ showed higher mean root length at -3.1 and -4.8 bars of water stress induced by PEG on the 3d day (8,7 mm-12,5 mm) and on the 6th day (35.7 mm-32.3 mm). It is not observed shoot of millet at -9.7 bars on the 3d and on the 6th days. ʻKharkivske 57ʼ, ʻIR 5ʼ, ʻSlobozhanskeʼ showed higher individual shoot length of 23.1 mm, 25.5 mm, 25.6 mm, respectively at -4.8 bars of PEG 6000 on the 6th day. At -6.6 bars of osmotic stress ʻKonstantinоvskeʼ and ʻSlobozhanskeʼ had lowest root length/shoot length ratio 2.58 and 2.61, respectively. Variety ʻOmriyaneʼ (3.54) and ʻIR 5ʼ (3.31) had the maximum deviation from unity (3.54 and 3.31, respectively). Conclusions. Genotypes' ʻKonstantinоvskeʼ and ʻSlobozhanskeʼ, which showed a high level of drought resistance, were selected as a result of this study in breeding for drought resistance. Variety ʻIR 5ʼ, ʻKonstantinovskeʼ and ʻKharkivske 57ʼ were characterized highest seed germination percentage at the different water stress.

Background. Mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek) sprouts are of high nutritional value and are very popular in the world, as they are a source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. In Russia, the consumption of V. radiata sprouts is only beginning to develop. Growing this crop for microgreens on a commercial scale requires cultivars with a rapid development rate and higher weight of sprouts. With this in view, the aim of this research was to study the effect of growing conditions and the genotype on morphological and physiological parameters of mung bean seeds and sprouts.Methods. Mung bean accessions from the VIR collection were analyzed. Germination energy, seed germination and seed vigor, and morphological characteristics were evaluated in seeds and sprouts of 16,000 plants. Four plant reproductions grown at Astrakhan (2015, 2017), Kuban (2005) and Adler (2016) Experiment Stations of VIR were studied. The effect produced by growing conditions and the genotype on morphological and physiological parameters of plants was identified using one- and two-way analyses of variance. Correlations between the traits were assessed using correlation and component analyses.Results. Specific individual features of the accessions produced the strongest effect on morphological and physiological characteristics of seeds and sprouts; weather conditions, the place and year of reproduction, to a lesser extent. Sowing quality of seeds depended more on the precipitation amount during the growing season than on the sum of active temperatures. When formed under dry conditions, seeds manifested better seed germination, germination energy of seeds, and seed vigor. Accessions with high and stable levels of seed germination, germination energy, and seed vigor, and weight of sprouts were identified.

The toxic effects of nickel and copper salts with different anions were compared at the initial stages of the ontogenesis of Bidens cernua. No toxicity limits of the studied salts for the seed germination have been found, which suggested a high resistance of this species to the effect of HM in comparison with other representatives of aquatic plants. It has been shown that acetates of both metals are more toxic than chlorides for seed germination at high concentrations (500–1000 mg∙L-1), as evidenced by a significant decrease in laboratory germination. For the seedling growth, nickel acetate was more toxic than its chloride, as evidenced by a significantly shorter main root and hypocotyl comparing to control. Meantime, copper chloride turned out to be more toxic than copper acetate, which was observed for the development of seedlings. The study indicated the need to take into account anions when comparing the effects of HM salts on plants during the experiments.

The yield of agricultural crops depends largely on the seeding qualities of the seeds. In this regard, in order to increase productivity, methods are used to increase the sowing qualities of seeds. These methods are quite diverse and include treatment of seeds with various chemicals, current and magnetic field treatment, as well as irradiation of seeds before sowing with electromagnetic waves. This article is of an overview nature and is devoted to methods of pre-sowing treatment of seeds in order to increase their germination, namely, the effect on seed germination of irradiation of their waves of different lengths. Thearticle considers the influence of four types of irradiation on crop quality: UV irradiation, laser irradiation, gamma irradiation, and UHF irradiation.

Purpose. Finding ways to activate the germination of sugar beet seeds, obtaining even and synchronous sprouts when applying fertilizer compositions with nanoscale elements. Methods. Vegetation and laboratory. The seeds of sugar beet were sown in prepared utensils with soil in accordance with the requirements of the methods for vegetation experiments. Fertilizers were introduced in the form of solutions with different ratios according to six microstages. Results. At 01 microstage on the BBCH scale (130 hours after sowing), an increase in the mass of beet fruits in all variants was observed - in the control variant by 9.78%; in the application of nanofertilizers - 20,4-23,7%. The diameter of the fruit varied similarly to changes in mass: in the control variant, the diameter change was 4.95%; in variants with application of nanofertilizers — 9.56-13.9%. Changes in the rate of sprout organs formation and their linear dimensions were noted in the various fertilization schemes. The length of the embryonic root at 05 microstage with uniform introduction of high norms of zinc and phosphorus, after 40 hours after sowing, was 0.540-2.671 mm. For other fertilizer combinations, the appearance of the germ root was noted only 44 hours after sowing. In 60 hours after sowing (07 microstage on the BBCH scale) there was a complete exit of cotyledons from the socket of the cluster with the introduction of nano chelate microfertilizers and only the beginning of the exit of cotyledons in the control variant. Due to the intensive processes of swelling and germination, the growth of the primary root of the sugar beet was accelerated. Conclusions. Uniform provision of seeds with zinc and especially phosphorus on the background of basic complex fertilizer with nanoscale elements contributed to the activation of seed germination and the intense formation of synchronously developed shoots. On average, the opening of the pericarp lid and the appearance of the root accelerated for 4 hours; 6 hours earlier there was an exit of cotyledons. With the introduction of nano chelate fertilizers, root growth and elongation of the hypocotyl at the first microstages of sugar beet sprouting were accelerated twice, due to which the sugar beet sprouts appeared 4-6 hours earlier. Nano chelate microfertilizers, promoting even and synchronous germination, development of sugar beet seedlings ensured synchronous emergence of seedlings and formation of predetermined sowing density without further reduction of plants.

Relevance. Growing plants in artificial conditions (closed agroecosystems) requires precise regulation of plant growth factors, starting from the first stages of ontogenesis. One of the parameters is the presence or absence of light in the period of seed germination. For most types of cabbage the standard method is germination in the dark, but for freshly harvested seeds (at rest) light exposure is necessary. According to the literature, the mechanisms of the effect of light on seed germination are complex and ambiguous, so the issue needs detailed research.Methods. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to study the germination of seeds of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck) and Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa var. chinensis), taking into account the light factor and the simultaneous analysis of antioxidant activity as a marker of changes in metabolic processes.Results. The experiment has revealed a significant increase in the antioxidant activity of the microgreens during germination in the dark compared to germination in the light (in broccoli by 5.5 times, in Chinese cabbage by 4.8 times). Later on, after the seedlings are moved to the light, the differences between the light and dark versions practically disappear. After germination in the light, the antioxidant activity of microgreens in comparison with the original (dry seeds) decreased by 3-3.5 times, while in the dark – on the contrary, increased by 1.5-1.6 times. The final results of germination (germination energy and seed germination) practically do not differ in the versions. In the case of dark germination, the height of microgreens is greater (due to etiolation and stretching in the absence of light), however, later on, the differences in the versions are smoothed out. The biomass of microgreens in the version of light germination on the 4th day after sowing seeds in broccoli is by 9.1% higher, in Chinese cabbage – by 10.5%. In case of Chinese cabbage, differences remained until the end of the experiment (on the 18th day from sowing seeds), in case of broccoli they were smoothed out. Comparison of two kinds of cabbage has showen that broccoli in the closed system of the synergotron forms a much higher aboveground biomass than Chinese cabbage (on the 4th day after sowing – by 37%, on the 18th day – by 75.4% in the dark version).

Background. Ultrasound is actively used to influence living organisms, but its physiological effect remains not fully understoodIn connection with the ability of ultrasonic waves to generate reactive oxygen species in an aqueous medium, special attention, from our point of view, should be paid to oxidative homeostasis and primary proteolysis of a reserve nutrient in germinating seeds. As the main indicators, attention should be paid to the proteins’ oxidative modification (POM), since they are the main traps of bioradicals, but their turnover in plant tissues remains unexplored. The purpose of the research is to study the effect of different times of ultrasonic exposure on the level of POM, lipid peroxidation (LPO), cysteine proteinase activity and expression of its gene (CP) in germinating wheat seeds. Materials and methods. Wheat seeds (Triticum aestivum L.), “Ekada-70” variety, collected in 2018, were used as the object of the study. The seeds were placed in an aqueous medium of an ultrasonic bath “UNITRA – UNIMA” UM – 4. The treatment was carried out for 5, 10, and 20 minutes; seeds soaked but not sonicated served as a control. At the end, the level of lipid peroxidation was determined in the seeds by the level of malonic dialdehyde (MDA) concentration, OMB registration of 2,4 – denitrophenylhydrazones (2,4 – DNPH), cysteine proteinase activity and gene expression (CP). Results. The experiments revealed the dependence of the studied parameters on the time of ultrasonic exposure. An increase in MDA content in germinating wheat seeds was shown after ultrasonic exposure. The content of 2,4 – DNPH had a wave-like dynamics, did not statistically significantly change in germinating seeds exposed to ultrasound for 5 min, increased in samples that were exposed to ultrasound for 10 min, and decreased in seeds treated with ultrasound for 20 minutes. The activity of the studied proteinase was higher in the samples after 5 minutes of ultrasonic treatment and lower than the control values in the seeds after 20 minutes of sonication. Gene expression (SR) was higher in germinating seeds subjected to 5–10 minutes ultrasonic treatment, followed by a fall below the control. Conclusions. The intensification of LPO processes, the wave-like dynamics of POM and the primary activation of proteolysis with subsequent inhibition in germinating wheat seeds after ultrasound exposure were established; protein homeostasis is more tolerant to the action of ROS compared to lipids.

The results of research on the effect of sowing period and depth of seed wrapping on field germination, growth and productivity of chicory root crops are presented. Successfully selected sowing time and properly set depth of seed wrapping help to obtain friendly and even seedlings, optimum onset and passage of plant growth and development phases, ensure uniform technical maturity of high-quality root crops for mechanized harvesting. In the ontogenetic relation of chicory seeds is an embryonic state of plant development. Under the influence of changes in environmental conditions, plants exhibit high plasticity – especially the variability of phenological characteristics. From the formation on the mother plant, the seeds of chicory culture feels the influence of those climatic conditions that have developed during the growing season. Changes accumulated by the seeds to some extent affect the formation of productivity, and its productivity. Natural factors that affect the growth and development of chicory plants directly affect the formation of the level of yield and quality of roots. On this basis, the impact of environmental conditions and agrotechnical measures on the formation of chicory root crop yields is of great scientific and industrial importance

This paper presents the results of research of Tripogon chinensis adaptation mechanisms to the environmental conditions. This relict cereal grows on petrophytic parts of the slopes, where it is affected by extreme environmental factors (temperature variations, lack of water, insolation, etc.). This cereal reproduces by seeds. Under such growth conditions, to be able to germinate and continue growing, the plant must effectively use the available moisture and the seed storage compounds. Experiments with seeds germinated under different moisture conditions showed the ability of T. chinensis seeds to germinate in substrates with widely varying moisture contents. Increased moisture adversely affected the process of germination and growth of the cereal. Seed storage proteins play a special role because they are used as source of amino acids for the synthesis of proteins necessary for the plant. Determination of the fraction composition of T. chinensis seed storage proteins showed the high content of albumins and globulins (45% of the total weight of storage proteins), which ensured germination under water deficit. The study showed that germinating T. chinensis seeds use prolamins (their concentration decreases fourfold during germination). The considerable prolamin content of seeds (37%) and prolamin dynamics during germination support the hypothesis on the adaptive role of prolamins, as they contain amino acids essential for the seedling. Thus, morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of this cereal characterize it as a xerophytic species, which developed due to a combination of environmental factors of the Eastern Transbaikal region

In vitro propagation system for Astragalus sericeocanus Gontsch., an endemic species of the coast of Lake Baikal, was developed for the first time. This species is a source of valuable secondary metabolites with medicinal properties. The efficiency of mechanical and chemical scarifications for overcoming physical dormancy of seeds of this species was estimated. The highest percentage of seed germination (80.7 ± 0.88 %) at the minimum duration of germination (7.3 ± 0.33 days) was obtained by mechanical treatment. The effect of thidiazuron (TDZ; 0.05–2.0 mg/l) supplemented to B5 medium on regenerative potential of different explant types was studied. Efficient TDZ concentrations induced direct organogenesis from primary shoots of seedlings (regeneration frequency up to 100 %) and axillary buds of microshoots (up 31.1 %) were revealed. The results showed that 0.1 mg/l TDZ was the ptimal concentration for the development of axillary meristems of primary shoots. Following cultivation of microshoots on the medium for propagation supplemented with 0.2 mg/l TDZ resulted in formation of 11.4 ± 0.64 shoots per explant. Callus formation was observed on medium supplemented with 1.0 and 0.05 mg/l TDZ using hypocotyl and cotyledon explants. Analysis of secondary metabolites by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed that the composition and content of phenolic compounds in regenerants obtained on medium supplemented with 0.05–0.1 mg/l TDZ were comparable to in vivo plants, indicating high biosynthetic capacity of microplants. Quercetin, kaempferol, apigenin and izorhamnetin were identified in the hydrolysates of extracts of in vivo plant leaves. Hydrolysates of in vitro plants extracts were characterized by the absence of apigenin only.

Background. The state of organic seed dormancy is an important adaptation mechanism for the conservation of the species. However, the presence of deep dormancy makes the cultivation of many plants difficult. The development of methods and technologies for growing plants in vitro allows to preserve some rare species. This method allows to obtain healthy planting material and significantly speeds up the process of breeding new varieties as well as preserves the genetic resources of cultivated and wild plant species. The purpose of this research is to study the peculiarities of overcoming the dormancy of iris seeds and the subsequent introduction of seedlings into in vitro culture. Materials and methods. The seeds of the studied iris varieties (Iris pseudacorus L.; I. graminea L.; I. ensata Thunb.; I. missouriensis Nutt.; I. sibirica L.; I. halophila Pall.) were collected in 2017–2018 in Penza Botanical Garden named after I. Sprygin. In laboratory conditions were studied the features of seed germination under the influence of various factors – the change of temperature and light, scarification. Sprouted seeds were planted in vitro. The explants were cultured in sterile conditions on a nutrient medium Murashige, Skoog with the addition of phytohormones – auxin (0,5–2 mg/l) and Gibberellin GA3 (2 mg/l), sucrose content – 20 g/l, glucose – 20 g/l. 10 seedlings of five plant species were grown under natural light and at room temperature. Results. During the study it was found that laboratory germination of seeds after cold dry stratification reached its maximum at +3 °C. Illumination had no effect on seed germination in the studied plant species. At the same time pre-freezing increased seed germination. It was also concluded that the less the seeds were in storage, the higher their germination was. Among the studied species of irises, the Siberian iris (I. sibirica L.) turned out to be the least whimsical and this sort has the highest percentage of seed germination. Optimal conditions were selected for the introduction of iris seedlings in vitro. A scheme has been developed for the introduction of plants of Iris into the medium in vitro, thanks to which it is possible to obtain plants with 93 % seed germination and with an 80 % guarantee that no pathogenic organisms will grow in the nutrient medium. The important points in the cultivation of irises in an artificial environment are the correct sterilization of seeds, the removal of the seed coat and the selection of a suitable nutrient medium. Conclusions. The influence of temperature, illumination and cold dry stratification on the germination of iris seeds disturb the deep dormancy of I. pseudacorus L., I. graminea L., I. ensata Thunb., I. missouriensis Nutt., I. sibirica L. seeds and promote their germination. To disturb the dormancy of I. halophila Pall seeds it was essential to use additional scarification. Also there was created a special way of seed sanification before planting them in vitro: 0,5 % KMnO4 (15 minutes) → 1 % CuSO4 (15 minutes) → 70 % ethanol (1 minute) → 3 % solution of H2O2 (1 minute) → repeated washing with sterile distilled water. The composition of the nutrient medium for in vitro cultivation was also selected as follows – the Murashige, Skoog medium with the addition of 3-indoleacetic acid (2 mg/l) and GA3 (2 mg/l), the content of sucrose is 20 g/l, glucose is 10 g/l.

Plant growth regulators are among the safest and show a stimulating effect on a wide range of plants. The scientific work is devoted to the study of the influence of pre-sowing treatment with eucalyptus (Folium Eucalypti) and celandine (Herba Chelidonii) on the development of wheat, beet and corn seedlings. Seed germination has increased by 2-12%. Eucalyptus showed the maximum effect on root growth: the root length increased by 3.7% for wheat, 15% for beets and 80% for corn in comparison with the control.

Protected Areas are considered as one of the most appropriate tool for biodiversity conservation. However, invasion of alien species is one of the main and widely known problems of these territories. Therefore, the timely detection and prevention of the invasive species dispersal is one of the main tasks of researchers in Protected Areas. The European species Hieracium sylvularum was found in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve in 2012. In the following years, new locations have been discovered there. That is why the main traits of the ecology and biology, invasiveness level of the alien species were studied. An investigation of the five known H. sylvularum locations has been carried out in the Mordovia Reserve. Attention has been paid to the age-structure of the populations, the accompanying floras' composition and morphometrical parameters of the generative individuals. The environmental conditions of habitats were revealed and compared using phytoindication methods. The mass and germination of seeds, harvested on different locations, were studied. The results indicate that H. sylvularum is not an invasive species. This alien plant is able to reproduce primarily vegetatively. Probably, the population area can extend gradually on each location. Seed dispersal is difficult due to low germinability of seeds, despite of their significant number per plant. Based on obtained results, dry and semi-dry light lichen-moss-Pinus-forests have a higher invasibility by H. sylvularum. Therefore, perhaps, its new locations may be found especially in these habitats. Annual monitoring of the currently known locations of this alien plant is necessary in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve.

The criterion for steady state species in the community is the possibility of a complete turnover generation. Ontogenetic structure of Fragaria vesca and Trientalis europaea cenopopulations in phytocenoses of different seral stages of forest community depended on the ecological-coenotic conditions. Cenopopulations of species with a high frequency of individuals of generative period were formed on disturbed forest communities, however, Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea seedlings in disturbed forest areas were not present. For these species, regeneration niches or microbioloby were the optimal conditions for seed germination and successful completion of the initial stages of ontogenesis, dedicated to the cenopopulations of phytocenoses climax serial stages. In holistic forest communities, species showed strategy type of patients. This allowed the species to be kept on a previously developed site. Invasive-regressive ontogenetic structure of Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea cenopopulations was formed in climax stages of forest communities. However, this type of ontogenetically structure of cenopopulations reflected the survival of seedlings of species in the community, but did not represent, the tenuous state of the population. The stages of the life cycle of Fragaria vesca and Trientalis europaea were confined to different cenopopulations, where they developed the necessary conditions for the flow of the hotel stages of ontogenesis. A set of populations, within which is carried out the full turnover of the generation of Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea, formed a correct idea about the status of the species in the community. In terms of a mosaic of phytocenosis cenopopulation of Platanthera bifolia was presented cenopopulations loci. The development of plants within loci differed. A variety of factors in heterogeneous pine forest determined by the separation in space of the processes of formation of seeds and survival of seedlings. This ensured the passage of the life cycle within one cenopopulations and sustainable status of the species.

The influence of high temperature treatment of the seeds of vegetable Umbelliferae crops was studied. Features of seed germination and embryo development depending on incubation time were revealed. High-temperature treatment of seeds during 5 and 20 days inhibits the embryo development and seed germination.

Boron is an essential micronutrient necessary for plant growth at optimum concentration. However, at high concentrations boron affects plant growth and is toxic to cells. Aqueous extract of plant-derived smoke has been used as a growth regulator for the last two decades to improve seed germination and seedling vigor. It has been established that plant-derived smoke possesses some compounds that act like plant growth hormones. The present research was the first comprehensive attempt to investigate the alleviation of boron stress with plant-derived smoke aqueous extract on Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) seed. Smoke extracts of five plants, i.e. Cymbopogon jwarancusa, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Peganum harmala, Datura alba and Melia azedarach each with six dilutions (Concentrated, 1:100, 1:200, 1:300, 1:400 and 1:500) were used. While boron solutions at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 ppm were used for stress. Among the dilutions of smoke, 1:500 of E. camaldulensis significantly increased germination percentage, root and shoot length, number of secondary roots and fresh weight of root and shoot while, boron stress reduced growth of Sorghum. It was observed that combined effect of boron solution and E. camaldulensis smoke extract overcome inhibition and significantly improved plant growth. Present research work investigated that the smoke solution has the potential to alleviate boron toxicity by reducing the uptake of boron by maintaining integrity of plant cell wall. The present investigation suggested that plant derived smoke has the potential to alleviate boron stress and can be used to overcome yield losses caused by boron stress to plants.

A study has been conducted to observe the toxic effect of leachate from cigarette origin tobacco leaf and extracts of cigarette smoke on Bengal gram (Cicer arietinum L.). Results showed that germination index significantly vary with concentration. Almost all the treated seeds germinated within five days of incubation. However tobacco leaf extract showed 85 % germination with same days of incubation. The growth parameters like root length, shoot length, number of leaf per plant, shoot diameter, root and shoot fresh and dry weight etc. changes according the concentration gradient. The highest pigment content and germination index were recorded in treatment T4.

Seed germination is a difficult process in some cases because these seeds are covered by a firm testa. The firm testa should be destroyed by means of the following agricultural practices: scarification, stratification, impregnation in boiling water, etc. to increase seed germination. The application of different agricultural practices such as pulse pressure 11 MPa and 29 MPa, scarification, stratification, impregnation in boiling water, the treatment by suspension of rhizosphere microorganism V. paradoxus on seed germination of honey locust were discussed in this article. It was found that scarification, stratification and impregnation in boiling water are effective methods of the firm testa seeds treatment. These methods increased the percentage of seed germination significantly. In addition, seeds with natural cracks had high percentage of germination.

Seed priming was used in barley to increase seed germination and tolerance on stress exposure. Barley seeds were treated with PEG (Polyethylene 6000 mw). After 7 days our results showed that, seed priming treatments significantly (p≤ 0.01) affected germination percentage, normality seedling percentage, and germination index. Seed priming with PEG increased germination characteristics as the compared to the unprimed. Also, priming increased catalase as compared to the unprimed seeds. Therefore, the highest germination characteristics and catalase activity were attained from priming with PEG.

Seed priming techniques have been used to increase germination, improve germination uniformity and seedling establishment under stressed conditions. Seed priming was used in Rye Mountain (Secale montanum) to increase seed germination and tolerance on stress exposure. Rye seeds were treated with various priming agents for different time and temperatures. The effect of priming was assessed on germination characteristics on subsequent exposure to drought (PEG -14 bar) stress for 7 days. Seed priming treatments significantly (p≤ 0.01) affected, Germination percentage (GP), normality seedling percentage (NSP), germination Index (GI), germination uniformity (GU), means time to germination (MTG), coefficient of velocity of germination (CVG), seedling vigour index (SVI) and coefficient of allometry (AC). Seed priming with gibberelic acid (GA) and salicylic acid (SA) (p≤ 0.01) increased germination characteristics as the compared to the unprimed. Seed priming with concentrations 25, 50 ppm of GA for 15 h at 10 °C and 25 ppm of SA for 12 h at 10 °C, may be considered as optimal treatment for priming of Secale montanum seeds in drought stress conditions. Also priming increased catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) as compared to the unprimed.

The effect of zinc sulfate (0.1 – 50 mg/L) on seed germination and early stages of development of seedlings of three species of the genus Bidens L. Zinc sulfate solution in the whole range of concentrations indicated no significant effect on laboratory germination B. tripartita L. A significant decrease of laboratory germination B. frondosa L. was found at 50 mg/L. Zinc (50 mg/L) had a toxic effect on the growth and root development of seedlings of all species studied: namely, B. cernua and B. frondosa missed the main root, while B. tripartita had the root which was significantly reduced in length. The above-ground portion of seedlings was less responsive to the elevated concentrations of zinc in the medium. Investigated species are located in the following series in order of decreasing resistance to zinc sulfate: B. tripartita> B. frondosa> B. cernua

The effect of temperature during seeds germination of some species of Umbelliferae vegetable crops has been studied. There is a different reaction of vegetable crops on the temperature factor: depending on crops and temperature, the number of days until the maximum rate of growth can varied from 7,6 to 22,8 days, and percentage of germinated seeds can varied from 7% to 88%. The effect of temperature on growth of seeds embryo has been studied in different crops. The «degree of underdevelopment of embryo» (DUE) characterized the morphological and anatomical features of embryo varied from 13 to 52%. The temperature coefficient (Q10) for the rate of germination of seeds of vegetable crops of Umbelliferae was 1,23 - 1,82.

Radiolytically derived oligomers of sodium alginate are considered to act as signal molecules, affecting growth, development and defense mechanisms of plants through gene regulation. Since germination is a critical stage in the life cycle of plants, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of irradiated sodium alginate (ISA) on the characteristics of seed germination of Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Soaking the seeds in an aqueous solution of ISA showed significant improvement in various seed germination parameters, viz. germination, viability and relative water content of seed, nitrate reductase activity, protease activity, α and β amylase activities in germinated seedlings of fennel. GPC study revealed formation of lower molecular weight oligomer fractions in irradiated samples which could be responsible for plant growth promotion in the present work.

Architectonics of dill seed-plant and ripeness level of seeds determine the linear sizes of embryo, exerting an influence on dormant stage, speed of embryo development, and main quality characteristics of seeds, which are responsible for their germination ability.

The study evaluated the effect of proline on germination and seedling growth of two Malaysian rice cultivars (MR220 and MR232) under salt stress. The exposure of rice seeds to increasing concentration of NaCl (0, 100, 200, 300 and 400 mM) had drastically affected germination (%), root and shoot length (mm), chlorophyll content and protein content. It is evident from the result of inhibition in germination rate, reduction in root and shoot length, chlorophyll content and protein content. However, several studies have shown that exogenous application of proline has ameliorated the negative effect of salt stress by regulating cellular osmotic balance. The present study has demonstrated that rice seeds pretreated with proline (1mM, 5mM and 10mM) and grown at different NaCl concentrations counteracted the adverse effect of salt. Pretreatment of proline at a concentration of 1mM was found to be effective and stimulated cellular activities, whereas 10mM proline was ineffective in improving plant growth under high level of salt (300 and 400mM NaCl).