Effect of Osmo-priming on Germination and Enzyme Activity in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Seeds under Drought Stress Conditions

Abstract

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.

Keywords

• Osmo-priming
• Seed germination
• Drought stress
• Enzyme activity
• Hordeum vulgare L.