INFLUENCE OF SEED PRIMING ON SEEDLINGS OF CROPS
The problem of influencing seed material in order to improve the sowing qualities of seeds and increase crop yields does not lose its relevance. Thus, various processing methods are used based, for example, on the use of electrophysical stimulation methods, protective compositions, seed pelleting technique, etc. A simple method of treating seeds in order to affect sowing qualities and future yields is also known - seed-soaking treatment (priming) of seeds, the features and mechanisms of which scientists continue to investigate. Assessment of the effect of seed priming on the seedling vigor of crops will make it possible to supplement information on its effect in the preparation of seed grains. Three crops were studied - oats, barley and corn. Pure water and potassium liquid humate were used as the soaking liquid. The experiment was carried out at room temperature three times. The goal of research was to identify the effect of priming on the seedling vigor and visual assessment of the green mass of sprouts in the control group and groups subjected to soaking. As a result of the experiment to assess the seedling vigor, it was found that the average value of the number of seeds that gave sprouts on the surface of more than 5 mm in the control groups is 72%, when soaked in water and potassium humate - 89 and 92%, respectively, which indicates a positive effect of priming on the evaluated parameter. At the same time, it has been established that prolonged seed-soaking treatment leads to the inhibition of biological processes occurring in the grain, worsening the seedling vigor in comparison with the maximum results obtained. A visual assessment of seedlings showed that seed-soaking treatment both in water and in a potassium liquid humate gives an increase in the green mass of seedlings.